A new electronic portal called Nusuk App is up and running to facilitate pilgrims on their way to Hajj and Umrah. As the custodian of Islam’s holiest sites, Saudi Arabia has again demonstrated its commitment to harmonizing tradition with innovation, ushering in a new era of seamless and enriched pilgrimage experiences.
Steeped in tradition yet attuned to the demands of the modern era, this cutting-edge app is poised to redefine the pilgrimage experience for millions of faithful travelers making their way to the holy cities of Madinah and Makkah.
As the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia continues its commitment to innovation and hospitality in religious tourism, this ground-breaking digitalized platform has further enhanced convenience and connectivity.
Seamlessly integrating the spiritual essence of the pilgrimage with the practicalities of modern travel, the Nusuk app (previously called Eatmarna) promises to empower pilgrims with a comprehensive suite of features designed to enhance every facet of their sacred journey.
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A Quick Look into the Nusuk App
Nusuk Application is all set to replace the Maqam e-platform that helped pilgrims visit holy sites in Saudi Arabia earlier. The latter will still be operational for some time but will soon be transferred to the new digital portal for a more effortless and seamless excursion.
What is the Nusuk App? How does it help Hajj and Umrah Pilgrims?
After the success of the Eatmarna and Tawakkalna applications, Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah decided to launch a unified app that will combine the features of the two apps along with some advanced functionalities to help visitors flying to the Kingdom for tours and pilgrimages.
The Nusuk app is the latest electronic platform that will provide services to all international and local pilgrims in Saudi Arabia who wish to visit the holy sites in the kingdom. The app is designed for anyone on the journey towards Hajj and Umrah, providing them with state-of-the-art digitalized assistance.
As an integral initiative under the Pilgrims Service Programme, launched in collaboration with the Ministry of Hajj and the Saudi Tourism Authority, Nusuk is the official and unified gateway for those embarking on the sacred journey.
What is Nusuk App for?
The app enables users to secure visas and permits, simplifying the planning process for Umrah and visits to the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah.
Nusuk goes beyond the conventional, extending its support to users by facilitating the application process for e-visas and offering a convenient interface to book flights and hotel accommodations effortlessly.
With Nusuk, the pilgrimage experience is not just a journey of faith but a technologically enhanced and user-centric expedition, reflecting Saudi Arabia’s commitment to providing a holistic and accessible pilgrimage for visitors from around the globe.
Basic Features of the Nusuk App
The Nusuk App is a comprehensive and user-centric platform, offering myriad features to enhance the pilgrimage experience for visitors. Nusuk goes beyond being a mere travel companion; it serves as a complete guide for pilgrims, offering an extensive list of holy sites that enrich the spiritual journey.
Linked to Saudi Arabia’s official tourism website, Nusuk ensures pilgrims have access to accurate and up-to-date information on the sacred destinations they may wish to visit during their stay in Makkah and Madinah.
Recognizing the importance of smooth travel within the country, Nusuk also provides a curated list of transport options, empowering pilgrims with choices that align with their preferences and needs.
In its commitment to enhancing user experience, the platform is poised to introduce interactive maps, an events calendar, and a digital guide to the kingdom’s policies, catering to users in multiple languages.
Some of the app’s key features are listed below:
- Electronic Issuance of Umrah Visa
Nusuk facilitates the seamless electronic issuance of Umrah visas, simplifying the application process for pilgrims worldwide.
- Arrival Assistance for International Pilgrims
The app streamlines the arrival process for international pilgrims, ensuring a smoother transition as they embark on their sacred journey.
- Transportation and Travel Services
Nusuk provides information on transportation options and travel services, allowing pilgrims to plan their journeys easily. It also offers insights into cultural events in the region.
- Umrah Permit Reservation
Pilgrims can conveniently reserve their Umrah permits through the app, providing a centralized platform for managing critical aspects of their pilgrimage.
- Visit to the Prophet’s Mosque
Nusuk facilitates pilgrims visiting the Prophet’s Mosque, ensuring a seamless process for obtaining the necessary permits.
- Customized Umrah Trips
Umrah seekers can secure their preferred packages through the app, tailoring their pilgrimage experience to their preferences.
- Digital Guide in Multiple Languages
Pilgrims benefit from a digital guide in several languages, offering clear instructions and valuable information to enhance their understanding of the pilgrimage rituals.
- Hotel and Flight Booking
Nusuk allows users to book hotels and flights conveniently, providing a one-stop platform for organizing all aspects of their travel.
- Umrah Visa Extensions
Pilgrims of all nationalities can extend their Umrah visas for up to three months through the Nusuk app, granting them the flexibility to stay in the Kingdom for a more extended period.
With these features, Nusuk not only simplifies logistical aspects but also aims to enhance the overall pilgrimage experience, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s commitment to making the journey to Makkah and Madinah accessible and spiritually fulfilling for international pilgrims.
Latest Updates and News on the Nusuk App
The Nusuk app was officially launched in December 2022 and has since helped thousands of people visiting the country to perform Hajj and Umrah.
Earlier, the platform was designated to aid people in planning their Umrah Trip, but the Government of Saudi Arabia gradually expanded the operations to facilitate Hajj Pilgrims, too.
This year, the service was extended to people from more than 58 countries to assist them during the annual Hajj pilgrimage in 2023.
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Direct Online Applications for Hajj
The Nusuk App now serves as a global gateway for pilgrims from Europe, Australia, America, and 58 other countries, offering a streamlined and accessible platform for direct Hajj applications.
Breaking geographical barriers, the app empowers applicants to create personalized profiles and seamlessly submit their Hajj applications from the comfort of their homes.
By digitizing the application process, Nusuk fosters convenience and opens doors for pilgrims worldwide, embodying a modern approach that embraces inclusivity and accessibility for the sacred pilgrimage.
In a momentous move, the Kingdom has also lifted all travel restrictions linked to the COVID-19 pandemic, signaling a renewed era of accessibility and openness for Umrah pilgrims.
Furthermore, in a gesture of hospitality, the Umrah visa duration has been extended to an impressive 90 days. This extended period offers pilgrims ample time to immerse themselves in the spiritual journey and explore the cultural richness of Madinah and Makkah.
The electronic visa option has been broadened to encompass all citizens and residents of the EU, the UK, the US, and GCC countries, fostering a spirit of inclusivity. As Saudi Arabia continues to position itself as a global hub for religious tourism, the Nusuk App serves as a harbinger of even more transformative initiatives.
The Kingdom is set to introduce myriad services, packages, and options for Umrah pilgrims, promising diverse and enriching experiences that extend beyond the traditional pilgrimage, echoing the nation’s commitment to providing a multifaceted and unforgettable journey for all.
How to Book Umrah Permit with Nusuk App?
Booking an Umrah and Rawdah permit through the Nusuk App is a straightforward process that ensures a seamless experience for pilgrims. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to accomplish this:
Creating an Account
- Open the Nusuk App on your device.
- Select your preferred language.
- Choose the ‘Visitor’ account type if you visit abroad.
- Fill in all the required details.
- Create a secure password.
- Agree to the terms and conditions by ticking the respective box.
- Click on the ‘Register’ button.
- Enter the One-Time Password (OTP) sent via SMS to your registered mobile number.
- Your account will now be registered and active to secure permits to various holy sites in Saudi Arab
Booking an Umrah Permit:
Here is a step-by-step guide to securing a permit for Umrah Visit:
- Log in using your credentials or create a new account as a “New User.”
- Select the “Umrah” option by hovering over Holy Mosque Services.
- Select the individuals for whom you are booking the permit.
- Choose the preferred date for the Umrah.
- Select the time slot for the pilgrimage.
- Read and accept the terms and conditions
- Press “Continue” to proceed with the booking.
After completing these steps, the app will display your Umrah details, including the reservation and permit number, a QR Code of the permit, and the chosen date and time slot. To optimize the experience, pilgrims are advised to select timings with fewer crowds, which are visually indicated by green colors on the calendar within the app.
This user-friendly process ensures that pilgrims can efficiently secure their Umrah permits while considering their preferred dates and minimizing crowds during this sacred journey.
Obtaining Permit for Visiting Rawdah Rasool (SAW)
Utilizing the Nusuk App to secure a Permit to visit Al Rawda Al Sharifa, the revered site of Prophet Muhammad’s tomb, is a streamlined process.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to obtain a Rawdah permit through the app:
Creating/Logging into Your Account:
- Log in using your credentials or create a new account as a “New User.”
Booking a Rawdah Permit:
- Select “Praying in the Noble Rawdah” within the Prophet’s Mosque Services section.
- Once your name is displayed, select it and click “Continue” to proceed.
- Select the date for your Rawdah visit.
- Choose your preferred time slot for the visit.
- Read and accept the terms and conditions.
- Click on the “Issue permit” tab to complete the booking process.
After following these steps, your Rawdah permit will be automatically issued. To access your permit, navigate to the “Permits” option in the menu.
Additionally, if your plans change, you can cancel your permit by clicking the “Cancel” button below your permit details.
The Nusuk App’s user-friendly interface ensures a hassle-free experience for pilgrims seeking the privilege of praying in the sacred Rawdah area at the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah.
The Transition of Services from Maqamto Nusuk App
Services offered on Maqam, which are already operational, will be transferred to Nusuk later, the Saudi Press Agency reported. Maqam facilitates all local and international pilgrims to obtain Umrah Packages from authorized travel and tour agents, secure visas, and book flights and accommodation.
Integrating Maqam services into Nusuk marks a strategic transition, streamlining and enhancing the overall pilgrimage experience, especially for international travelers.
According to reports from the Saudi Press Agency, the seamless transfer of services from Maqam to Nusuk will consolidate and optimize the array of services available to pilgrims.
The transition to Nusuk signifies a technological evolution and an elevation of the user experience, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s commitment to providing pilgrims with a unified, efficient, and comprehensive platform for their sacred journey.
How to Download the Nusuk App?
The Nusuk Application is available for download on all Android and IOS devices. You may visit Google’s Play Store or Apple’s App Store to download the app on your preferred device.
Conclusion:
The Nusuk app, a pivotal component of the Saudi Government’s Vision 2030 program, is meticulously designed to elevate the spiritual and cultural journey for pilgrims visiting the sacred sites of Madinah and Makkah.
By seamlessly integrating advanced features, the application promises to make the pilgrimage more navigable and profoundly rewarding, aligning seamlessly with Saudi Arabia’s commitment to enhancing the overall experience for devotees and aligning with the nation’s forward-looking initiatives.
With the launch of this user-centric electronic portal, Saudi Arabia has not only unveiled a groundbreaking digital platform but has also taken significant strides in enhancing the overall pilgrimage experience.
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