Following Saudi Arabia’s historical move this year in allowing all visitors to perform the pilgrimage, regardless of visa type, the Kingdom has announced a new licensing system to house more pilgrims.
This means local property owners will be able to obtain seasonal licenses during the pilgrimage season, a move authorities hope will ease housing shortages while welcoming more travellers.
The Nusuk platform will remain the main source of Umrah planning, from getting necessary permits, to all accommodation and transport bookings.
Hotels that already have year-round tourism licenses will not be affected by this new temporary system.
These moves are part of a longer-term plan promoting religious tourism ahead of Saudi Vision 2030.
Related: The new Umrah travel trend among Muslim travellers
According to Saudi Arabia’s recently reformed Umrah policy, all visitors can now perform the pilgrimage, regardless of visa type. This applies across tourist, work, transit, family, visit visas etcetera.
Licensed travel agents can also help pilgrims with the application process.
Previously, Muslims who sought to perform Umrah had to apply for a dedicated Umrah visa or have their visit tied to a special pilgrimage programme.