The new Umrah season in 2025 begins with the remarkable changes in Umrah policies. Saudi Arabia, recognizing the ever growing number of pilgrims each year, introduced a set of Umrah rules to enhance the quality of services and make sure that every pilgrim enjoys a more comfortable Umrah experience than before. These changes cover the whole spectrum of Umrah with the integration of smart systems, advanced digital tools, training hotel staff, and providing pilgrims with professional assistance as soon as they arrive in Saudi Arabia for Umrah.

Increased Accommodation Quality Standards

To provide pilgrims with comfortable accommodations, the authorities have imposed strict accommodation quality standards. Now it is essential for hotels in Makkah and Madinah to raise their standards to get registered on Nusuk. Without entering the Nusuk platform, they can’t receive Umrah guests.  The new Umrah regulations addressing hotels cover everything from comfortable room amenities to swift and friendly customer service. These rules also require hotels to provide a healthy variety of food and accessibility measures. By enforcing tougher rules, authorities aim to ensure that all pilgrims, whether choosing budget packages or luxury options, experience an Umrah stay that meets all the modern hospitality standards. This change in rules aims to play a significant role in increasing the demand for Umrah Packages and more visits of international pilgrims. 

Training of Hotel Staff

To get registered on Nusuk, hotels are investing heavily in improving their standards. The hotels are training their staff and improving their services to accommodate more guests and give them the best stay experience. Training the hotel staff, hiring multilingual staff, and the use of technologies are some of the measures taken by hotels to ensure guests choose their hotel every time they visit Makkah or Madinah. The measures taken to enhance the hospitality services reflect the spiritual significance of the journey. Many hotels have upgraded themselves, improved their infrastructure, renovated their interiors, expanded their dining facilities, and added shuttle services to make every step of Umrah comfortable and convenient. 

Technology Integration for Pilgrim Safety

New technological tools are making traveling easier than before. The introduction of technology-driven apps and devices is made to enhance the pilgrim experience. Many applications are introduced for a better pilgrimage experience. The Rushd app is one of the applications launched to give pilgrims a wonderful experience. Through this app, pilgrims can find their way in Makkah and Madinah, stay connected with their groups, and get real-time updates. Bracelets have also been introduced to provide real-time health monitoring and location tracking. Pilgrims can register on the Nusuk app to get a time slot in Rawdah Rasool PBUH. The combination of digital tools makes the journey safer and more comfortable. 

Making Accommodations More Accessible

Umrah hotels are working on upgrading themselves to provide more accessible options to the pilgrims, particularly families and elders. Hotels are now incorporating ramps, elevators, accessible washrooms, and spacious rooms with bathrooms fitted with grab rods. With pilgrims traveling with different needs, these accessible improvements show the commitment of hotels in providing care for every pilgrim. 

Hotel Booking Must Cover Entire Stay

It is now essential for Umrah travelers to book a hotel for the entire Umrah stay. Previously, travelers could book a hotel for just 3 or 4 days and then move to other accommodations for the rest of their Umrah trip in Saudi Arabia. Now, pilgrims need a hotel reservation for their entire trip. This restriction is made to prevent fraudulent activities. The Saudi authorities will verify the pilgrim’s hotel's check-in and check-out dates against the visa. If dates do not match the check-in and check-out, the visa application will be rejected. This strict policy ensures a safe Umrah trip.

Only Nusuk - Registered Hotels are Accepted

Not every hotel in Makkah and Madinah is linked with the Saudi Ministry. That is why the Kingdom made it essential for travel agents to reserve hotels that are licensed and approved by the Saudi Ministry. Travel agents can check the list of registered hotels on Nusuk Masar.

Children Must be Included When booking Rooms

Now the new rule mandates, every individual will get a bed. Even a bed will be reserved for the infant. If you are planning an Umrah trip with minors, ensure they are included in the reservation and visa documentation to avoid visa rejection. 

Funadiq Supports Pilgrims

Funadiq is making new developments to help travel agents find the right accommodations for their clients. With the help of Funadiq, travel agents can choose the best hotel options in Makkah and Madinah, offering comfortable amenities and friendly services. Travel agents can check hotel availability, its distance, and other amenities.

Conclusion

The new change in the Umrah rules shows that the Kingdom is serious about investing in the pilgrim experience. By embracing these changes, every pilgrim can expect to have a memorable Umrah experience.

As you prepare for the journey, do not forget to book Umrah Packages through a reliable Umrah agency. Umrah travelers can choose an Umrah package from Umrah Companions through a direct link provided at Funadiq.com. Their all-inclusive Umrah Packages support pilgrims every step of the way. 

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