🛫 No Agent, No Problem: Understanding Saudi Arabia’s New Visa System for DIY Umrah Travellers (2025 Guide)

When Saudi Arabia announced its new Instant eVisa platform via ksavisa.sa , travellers everywhere perked up. It’s part of a bigger vision to simplify travel and open the Kingdom’s doors wider — whether you’re visiting for tourism, business, or even Umrah.

The exciting part? The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has officially confirmed that all visa types (including the new Instant eVisa, tourist, and transit visas) are now valid for performing Umrah — provided you follow the rules. (Source : Gulf News )

So, what does this mean for DIY pilgrims and smart travellers? Let’s break it down with these 17 practical FAQs 👇

1️⃣ What exactly is the new Instant eVisa platform?

Saudi Arabia’s new Instant eVisa platform at ksavisa.sa — managed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) — is designed to make applying for visas faster and easier. (Source : The Times Of India )
It’s currently in a pilot phase, offering an all-digital process where eligible visitors can apply, pay, and receive approval within minutes for selected visa categories.

💡 Think of it as the next evolution of the existing tourist visa system, but more streamlined and potentially covering even more nationalities soon.

2️⃣ What are the main official Saudi visa websites?

Each type of visa is handled by a different ministry — so it’s important to apply through the correct site :

🔗 The Saudi Embassy’s official website (saudiembassy.net) also lists all these links for verification.

3️⃣ Can I perform Umrah with a Tourist or Instant eVisa?

✅ Yes, you can!
The Ministry of Hajj & Umrah officially announced that all visa types — including tourist, business, family visit, and transit visas — are eligible for performing Umrah.

Just remember:

• ❌ Not valid for Hajj.
• ⏱️ Stay duration: up to 90 days (tourist eVisa).
• 🕋 Perform Umrah anytime except during the restricted Hajj period.

4️⃣ What are the differences between Umrah, Tourist & Instant eVisas?

5️⃣ Can I use “kereta sapu” (unlicensed taxis) for transportation?

Technically, no. It’s not allowed to use unlicensed private cars for paid transport.
Saudi law requires using registered providers such as Careem, Uber, or official airport/hotel taxis.

💡 Download the Careem app — it’s the most reliable ride service in both Madinah and Makkah.

6️⃣ How can I check if my hotel or transport provider is registered?

Before booking, you can verify legitimacy here:

• 🏨 Hotels & Umrah Operators: umrah.nusuk.sa
• 🚗 Transportation & Licensed Agents: masar.nusuk.sa

If the provider isn’t listed, double-check with customer service or your embassy before paying.

7️⃣ Is Saudi Arabia safe and easy to travel independently?

Absolutely ✅
The Kingdom has invested heavily in safety, digital infrastructure, and tourism support.
Wi-Fi coverage, transport apps, and English-language signboards are now common in most major cities.

For DIY Umrah pilgrims, travelling independently is now both safe and rewarding — provided you plan routes in advance and follow visa conditions.

8️⃣ What are the most practical visas for DIY Umrah travellers?

The Tourist eVisa remains the easiest and most flexible choice.
It allows:

• Multiple entries within 1 year
• 90 days stay per visit
• Travel anywhere in Saudi Arabia (Makkah, Madinah, AlUla, Taif, Jeddah, etc.)

💡 Many DIY pilgrims combine Umrah with sightseeing — like “Umrah Plus AlUla” or “Umrah Plus Taif”.

9️⃣ How do I confirm my visa type allows Umrah?

When applying for your visa:

• Check the “Purpose of Visit” section for Tourism or Umrah.
• Read the fine print in your eVisa approval email — it will mention religious travel eligibility.
• You can also verify via ksavisa.sa or visa.visitsaudi.com support chat.

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🔟 What’s the best overall approach for 2025–2026 DIY Umrah?

Here’s a smart combo:

1. Apply for a Tourist eVisa via visa.visitsaudi.com .
2. Plan your route: Jeddah → Makkah → Madinah (→ optional AlUla).
3. Use official apps like Nusuk, Careem, and Haramain Train.
4. Avoid peak Ramadan/Hajj for cheaper rates.
5. Stay informed about new eVisa updates on ksavisa.sa .

11️⃣ What is the Nusuk platform, and do I need it if I already have a visa?

Yes — absolutely. Think of your visa as your entry ticket to Saudi Arabia, and Nusuk (nusuk.sa) as your key to organizing your pilgrimage.

It’s the official app and web platform managed by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, and it allows you to:

• 📲 Book your Umrah permit to enter the Grand Mosque in Makkah.
• 🌿 Schedule visits to Al-Rawdah Al-Sharifah in Madinah (the sacred garden).
• 🏨 Manage or confirm approved accommodation and transport services.

💡 Even if you have a Tourist eVisa, it’s highly recommended to download and register on Nusuk — you’ll need it to secure your Rawdah permit and to stay compliant with Umrah regulations.

12️⃣ Are there any new mandatory requirements for the Umrah visa application?

Yes — starting 2025, a major update applies to dedicated Umrah visas.
Applicants must pre-book their accommodation and transportation through the official Nusuk Masar platform before their visa is approved.

This rule aims to:

• ✅ Ensure all Umrah services are licensed and verified.
• 🛡️ Protect pilgrims from fraud and unregistered agents.
• 🕋 Streamline arrivals and logistics in Makkah and Madinah.

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13️⃣ I have a Tourist eVisa. Am I also required to pre-book hotels and transport via Nusuk?

Not strictly — this pre-booking mandate is mainly for Umrah visa applicants.

However, if you’re a DIY traveller using a Tourist eVisa, it’s highly advisable to arrange your accommodation and transport in advance.
Using official channels such as Nusuk, masar.nusuk.sa, or trusted affiliates like Trip.com ensures:

• Your hotel is MoHU-approved,
• Your transfers are properly licensed, and
• You’ll avoid last-minute issues or overcharging.

💡 Smart move: Always print or save your hotel confirmation in the Nusuk app before departure.

14️⃣ Can a woman perform Umrah without a Mahram (male guardian)?

✅ Yes, under current Saudi regulations, women aged 18 and above can perform Umrah without a Mahram, provided they are:

• Travelling in an organized group with a licensed operator, or
• Visiting under a Tourist Visa or Instant eVisa, where no Mahram requirement applies.

This policy was introduced in late 2022 and remains valid through 2025.
However, for younger women (below 18), a Mahram is still required.

💡 Always verify the latest ruling before booking — check directly on nusuk.sa or with the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah’s support.

15️⃣ What are the current health and vaccination requirements?

To ensure the safety of all pilgrims, proof of vaccination is mandatory.
As of 2025, travellers must present valid certificates for:

• 💉 Meningococcal Meningitis (required for all Umrah and Hajj pilgrims)
• 💉 COVID-19 (as per WHO recommendations)
• 💉 Seasonal Influenza
• 💉 Yellow Fever and Polio, if travelling from high-risk countries

🩺 Tip: Always carry digital and printed vaccination proof — some airlines and Saudi border officers may request it.

16️⃣ What should I do if I face problems with my eVisa or Nusuk bookings?

If you encounter technical or booking issues:

For visa or payment problems:

• 🖥️ Contact the platform you used — either ksavisa.sa (for Instant/Business eVisas) or visa.visitsaudi.com (for Tourist eVisas).

For Umrah permits, hotels, or transport:

• 📱 Use the Help or Support features in the Nusuk app or masar.nusuk.sa.
• 📧 You can also reach the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah through their verified social media accounts (@MoHU_EN on X/Twitter).

💡 Keep your application number, passport details, and booking reference handy for faster resolution.

17️⃣ Do I still need travel insurance if my Saudi visa already includes insurance?

Good news — most Saudi eVisas now come bundled with basic travel and health insurance. This is automatically issued along with your visa (whether it’s through visa.visitsaudi.com or ksavisa.sa ) and covers emergency medical treatment, accidents, and even COVID-19 while you’re in the Kingdom.

However, the coverage is basic and typically limited to emergencies only. It may not cover:

• Trip cancellations or delays,
• Lost baggage,
• Theft of personal belongings,
• Flight or accommodation disruptions, or
• Treatment for pre-existing medical conditions.

💡 Tip:
If you’re planning a longer Umrah or multi-city trip (for example, Umrah Plus AlUla), it’s wise to purchase supplementary travel insurance from a trusted provider in Malaysia. It’ll give you wider protection and peace of mind — especially for connecting flights and valuable items.

✨ Final Thoughts

Saudi Arabia’s digital transformation is opening exciting new possibilities for independent travellers and pilgrims.
Whether through the new Instant eVisa or the existing Tourist Visa, visiting the holy cities is now more accessible than ever — without needing a traditional travel agent.

Plan wisely, follow official sources, and your DIY Umrah can be just as smooth, spiritual, and fulfilling as any guided package. 🌙

✍️ Written by AaraStories
📍 blog.aara.cloud/umra