Navigating Nusuk for Unsupported Countries: How to Find Authorized Providers

Assalamualaikum and Greetings, Fellow Pilgrims!

Planning your Umrah journey is one of the most spiritually rewarding experiences a Muslim can have. With the launch of the Nusuk Umrah platform — an official initiative by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah of Saudi Arabia — performing Umrah has become easier, more reliable, and more transparent than ever before.

But what happens if your country isn’t listed as eligible for direct bookings through Nusuk? For example, as of now, Malaysia is not among the supported countries for direct use of the platform.

Does this mean you cannot benefit from Nusuk’s packages and services?
Not at all. You can still plan your journey with confidence — by working with authorized service providers listed on the platform.

This blog explains how pilgrims from unsupported countries can navigate the Nusuk system, find reliable ground handling partners, and still enjoy a smooth, stress-free Umrah experience.

What is Nusuk Umrah?

Nusuk Umrah is a digital platform launched by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah to simplify the process of booking Umrah and Ziyarah packages. It provides:

• Verified ground handling services (hotels, transport, tours)
• Secure booking options through Ministry-approved providers
• Ease of planning while giving pilgrims flexibility to book their own flights

For supported countries, this is a one-stop shop for planning Umrah without relying entirely on third-party travel agents.

The Challenge for Unsupported Countries

If your country isn’t listed, you won’t be able to directly book packages on Nusuk. However, the platform still provides an invaluable resource — a directory of authorized service providers .

Why is this important?

• Official Approval: Every provider is licensed by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.
• Safer Transactions: Reduced risk of scams or unverified offers.
• Visa Compliance: Many Umrah visas require proof of approved bookings — Nusuk ensures your package is compliant.

Understanding the New Umrah Visa Rules

1. Saudi Tourist Visa for Umrah

• Available to selected countries, including Malaysia.
• Valid for multiple entries within 12 months.
• Allows stays of up to 90 days per visit.
• Lets travellers explore beyond Makkah and Madinah to other parts of Saudi Arabia.

2. Traditional Umrah Visa

• Still an option for countries like Malaysia via approved travel agencies.
• However, visa approval often requires proof of official hotel and transport bookings.
• Booking through Nusuk-approved providers can strengthen the application and reduce risk of rejection.

Key Benefits of Using Nusuk (Even Indirectly)

1. Reliability and Safety

Nusuk-approved providers eliminate the risks of dealing with unlicensed operators.

2. Visa Compliance

Saudi Arabia has made approved hotel bookings mandatory for Umrah visa applications. Nusuk ensures your booking meets these criteria.

3. Customizable Travel Plans

You can still control your flights and additional travel plans — ideal for those combining Umrah with visits to nearby destinations (e.g., Dubai, Egypt, or Turkey).

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Use Nusuk for Unsupported Countries

Step 1: Explore the Nusuk Website

Visit umrah.nusuk.sa and browse the platform to understand available packages and services.

• Look for hotel options, transport services, and Ziyarah tours.
• Note the authorized service providers operating in Saudi Arabia.

Step 2: Identify Authorized Service Providers

Each authorized provider has a profile detailing the services offered. This ensures that any package you book aligns with official requirements.

• Providers are vetted by the Ministry.
• Packages range from budget hotels to premium accommodations.
• Transportation options include airport transfers and city travel.

Step 3: Contact Providers Directly

For pilgrims from unsupported countries:

• Use the contact details listed on Nusuk to reach providers directly.
• Request a customized ground package including hotel, transport, and Ziyarah tours.

Step 4: Coordinate With Your Local Travel Agent

Many travel agents in countries like Malaysia arrange Umrah using traditional Umrah visas. With Nusuk:

• Agents can now secure verified ground arrangements through Nusuk providers.
• This helps in obtaining faster visa approvals since the package comes from an authorized source.
• It also reduces risks of last-minute cancellations or visa rejections.

Step 5: Book Your Flights

Nusuk also provides an option to book flights directly through its platform, making it easier to plan your journey in one place. However, if you wish to use air miles or frequent flyer credits, you will need to book directly through the airline.

Alternatively, you can compare fares on platforms like Trip.com or Skyscanner, or book directly via airlines such as Flynas, SalamAir, or Air Arabia for regional routes.

Additional Tips for Unsupported Countries

• Start Planning Early: Securing flights and packages well in advance reduces costs and stress.
• Confirm Everything in Writing: Whether with a provider or a local agent, ensure you have official confirmations for all bookings.
• Stay Updated: Nusuk is expanding its services. Your country might be added to the platform soon.

Disclaimer

As of August 2025, Malaysia and several other countries are not yet eligible for direct Nusuk booking. Information in this blog is based on the current FAQ and guidelines published by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. Always verify the latest details on umrah.nusuk.sa .