UAE airlines have made return tickets compulsory for all passengers flying to Saudi Arabia for Umrah. The rule enforced in coordination with Saudi authorities, aims to prevent overstays and ensure clear travel plans for pilgrims.
Passengers without confirmed return flights are being denied check-in at airports, prompting operators to advise booking full round-trip tickets to avoid last-minute complications, reports Khaleej Times.
Furthermore, Saudi Arabia has rolled out a new set of stricter regulations to streamline the pilgrimage process.
Umrah operators in the UAE said that every stage of the journey – from visa approval to transport and accommodation is now connected to official digital systems, ensuring transparency and coordination. However, the updated rules also require pilgrims to comply with tighter conditions.
Here are 10 major updates every pilgrim should know before planning their journey-
Mandatory hotel booking during visa application
Pilgrims must now confirm accommodation while applying for their Umrah visa. Through the Masar system linked to the Nusuk app, they must either select an approved hotel or register that they will be staying with relatives in Saudi Arabia.
“Accommodation and transport are now integrated into the Saudi system to ensure proper monitoring and safety,” said Qaisar Mahmood, owner of Asaa Tours and Travels.
Staying with relatives requires host’s Saudi ID
Those intending to stay with family members must provide the host’s unified Saudi ID, which is automatically linked to their visa. Any change in travel dates or plans must be updated in the system.
Tourist visa holders may face entry restrictions
Traveling for Umrah on a tourist visa is strongly discouraged. Operators warned that certain visitors may be stopped from entering the Haram or the sacred Riyaz ul Jannah area in Madinah. “Pilgrims should apply for a dedicated Umrah visa to avoid complications,” Mahmood added.
Official Umrah visa only through approved platforms
Umrah visas can be obtained electronically through the Nusuk platform or by booking with licensed operators. Authorities have emphasized that these are the only valid routes for obtaining permits.
Fixed itineraries and penalties for overstaying
Applicants must upload a detailed travel plan during visa processing. The itinerary cannot be altered later, and any overstay will result in fines starting from SAR 750 (about AED 734). Agents responsible may also face system suspensions.
Visa-on-arrival for select nationalities
Pilgrims holding valid UK, US, Canada, or Schengen visas – or permanent residency in those regions may qualify for a visa on arrival, provided they have visited those countries previously.
Airport verification of bookings
Upon landing, Saudi officials cross-check hotel, transport, and return flight details in the Nusuk or Masar database. Missing or incorrect entries can lead to on-the-spot penalties or denial of onward travel, said Shihab Perwad of Rehan Al Jazeera Tourism.
Use of authorised transport only
All travel within Saudi Arabia must be done using registered taxis, buses, or trains booked through official portals. “Random, unregistered taxis are strictly prohibited,” Perwad warned.
Train timing regulations
The Haramain Express train remains a preferred route between holy cities but operates only until 9pm. Pilgrims arriving after that must pre-book authorised alternate transport to avoid disruptions.
Fines for rule violations
Authorities have imposed strict penalties for violations from unauthorised transport to overstaying visas. “Fines start at Dh750, and in some cases, travel restrictions may follow,” Mahmood said.
Travel agents advised all pilgrims to carefully complete their bookings in advance and adhere to official systems to ensure a smooth, compliant pilgrimage experience.
