The Complete South African Guide to the Nusuk Hajj Platform: Registration, 

The Complete South African Guide to the Nusuk Hajj Platform: Registration, Requirements, and Process

Disclaimer: This guide is based on the current public information and the standard global Nusuk Hajj platform procedures. The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah may update the platform's features and requirements. Always confirm the latest details on the official Nusuk Hajj website (hajj.nusuk.sa) and through official SAHUC communications, as the situation has been subject to change.

Section 1: Understanding the New System & Key Preparations

1.1 The Paradigm Shift: What Has Changed?

·         From SAHUC-Centric to Direct Registration: The old SAHUC waiting list is no longer valid. All pilgrims must now register directly on the Nusuk Hajj platform.

·         First-Come, First-Served: Applications are processed based on the time and date of successful submission on the Nusuk platform, not on your previous position in the SAHUC queue.

·         Direct Contracting: You will now view, select, and contract directly with various Saudi-approved service providers (Mu'allims) on the platform. You are entering into a direct agreement with them.

·         Potential for Higher Costs: Package prices are set by the service providers and the market on the platform. They may be higher than the previous SAHUC-managed packages.

1.2 Essential Prerequisites Before You Start

1.        A Valid Passport: Your passport MUST be valid for at least six (6) months after the planned return date from Hajj (e.g., if returning in July 2025, passport must be valid until at least January 2026).

2.        A Recent, Professional Photograph: Prepare a digital, colour photograph against a plain white background.

3.        A Digital Vaccination Certificate: Ensure you have a digital copy of your mandatory meningitis (ACYW135) vaccination certificate. The vaccination must have been administered no more than 3 years and no less than 10 days before your arrival in Saudi Arabia.

4.        A Valid International Debit/Credit Card: For paying the initial deposit and subsequent payments on the platform.

5.        A Secure Email Address and Phone Number: This will be your primary point of contact for all communications and account verification.

Section 2: Step-by-Step Guide to Nusuk Hajj Registration

Step 1: Account Creation & Pilgrim Profile

1.        Access the Official Portal: Go to the official Nusuk Hajj website: https://hajj.nusuk.sa

2.        Create an Account: Click on "Register" or "Create an Account".

o Enter your active email address and create a strong password.

o You will receive a One-Time Password (OTP) for verification. Enter this to verify your email.

3.        Complete Your Personal Profile:

o Fill in all required personal details accurately as they appear in your passport:

§  Full Name (First, Middle, Father, Grandfather, Family Name)

§  Nationality (South African)

§  Date of Birth (Gregorian and Hijri)

§  Place of Birth (City & Country)

§  Gender

o Crucially Important: Your name on the Nusuk profile MUST BE AN EXACT 100% MATCH with your passport. Any discrepancy will lead to rejection and you will be denied boarding.

Step 2: Adding Pilgrim Companions (If Applicable)

·         If you are applying for family members (spouse, children, parents), you can add them as "companions" within your main account.

·         You will need to complete the full profile and upload the required documents for each companion individually.

·         The main applicant will be the primary contact and contract holder for the entire group.

Step 3: Document Upload - Specifications & Formats

This is the most critical stage. Incorrect documents are the primary reason for application rejection.

Document

Specification

Format

Size

Additional Notes

Passport Copy

A clear, colour scan of the bio-data page. Ensure all text, the MRZ (machine-readable zone), and the photograph are fully visible.

PDF (Recommended) or JPG/JPEG

< 5 MB

Passport must be valid for >6 months after Hajj.

Personal Photo

A recent (last 6 months) colour photograph against a plain white background.

JPG/JPEG

< 5 MB

Dimensions: 200x200 px to 500x500 px.
Head Coverage: Females must wear a white hijab, leaving the face clearly visible. Do not wear Niqab.
Males should not wear a head covering unless for religious reasons, in which case the face must be fully visible.
Both: Neutral expression, eyes open and clearly visible, no glasses, no shadows.

Vaccination Certificate

A clear digital copy or scan of the official meningitis (ACYW135) certificate.

PDF or JPG/JPEG

< 5 MB

Must show your name, date of vaccination, and vaccine type.

Step 4: Hajj Application & Package Selection

1.        Initiate Application: Once your profile is 100% complete and verified, navigate to the "Hajj Services" or "Apply for Hajj" section.

2.        Select Your Year: Choose the relevant Hijri year (e.g., 1447H).

3.        Browse Available Packages: The platform will display a list of available Hajj packages from various Saudi-approved service providers.

4.        Analyze Package Details Meticulously:

o Accommodation in Makkah & Madinah: Check the exact location, distance from the Haram, room type (shared, private), and star rating. A map is usually provided.

o Accommodation in Mina: This is your tent city. Check the category, facilities, and location within the Mina camps.

o Transportation: What type of transport is provided? Buses, trains? What are the schedules?

o Meals: Are meals included? If so, how many per day?

o Guidance & Support: What level of guidance (Tawjih) is provided?

o Total Cost: Break down the cost to understand what you are paying for.

Step 5: Contracting & Payment

1.        Select Your Package: After careful comparison, select the package that best suits your spiritual needs and budget.

2.        Review the Contract: Read the entire electronic contract carefully before proceeding. It details your rights and the service provider's obligations.

3.        Make the Payment: You will be required to pay an initial deposit or the full amount, as stipulated by the package, using your international debit or credit card on the secure platform.

4.        Confirmation: Upon successful payment, you will receive an electronic confirmation and a Hajj Permit (issued closer to the travel date) via your Nusuk account and email. This permit is mandatory for travel.

Section 3: Post-Registration & Final Preparations

·         Monitor Your Nusuk Account: Regularly check your account and email for any updates, requests for additional information, or your final Hajj permit.

·         Final Payment: Ensure you pay any outstanding balances by the deadlines specified in your contract.

·         Book Your Flights: Unlike the old system, you may need to book your own international flights. Confirm this with your selected service provider. Some premium packages may include flights.

·         Prepare for a Different Group Dynamic: Be mentally prepared that you and your family may not be with the larger "South African group." You will be with the other pilgrims assigned to your specific service provider, who may be from various countries.

·         Stay Informed via SAHUC: While SAHUC no longer manages applications, they may still provide advisory support, spiritual guidance, and liaison services. Follow their official channels for any South Africa-specific updates.

Summary Checklist for a Successful Application

·         Passport is valid for >6 months after Hajj.

·         Digital Photo taken against a white background, meeting all specifications.

·         Meningitis Vaccination certificate is ready and valid.

·         Nusuk Account created and verified via email.

·         Pilgrim Profile is 100% complete, with names matching the passport exactly.

·         All documents uploaded in the correct format and size.

·         Hajj Package carefully selected and compared.

·         Electronic Contract reviewed and understood.

·         Initial Payment made successfully via the platform.

·         Confirmation received and saved.

·         Nusuk Account & Email monitored regularly for the Hajj Permit.

By following this detailed guideline, you can navigate the new Nusuk Hajj platform with confidence and ensure your application is complete, correct, and has the best chance of success. May Allah (SWT) accept your efforts and grant you a blessed and accepted Hajj.

The Complete South African Guide to the Nusuk Umrah Platform: Registration, Requirements, and Process

Disclaimer: This guide is based on the current public information and the standard global Nusuk Umrah platform procedures. The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah may update the platform's features and requirements. Always confirm the latest details on the official Nusuk Umrah website (umrah.nusuk.sa) and through your licensed South African Umrah operator, as the situation is subject to change.

Section 1: Understanding the System & Key Preparations

1.1 The Digital Paradigm: How Umrah Booking Works Now

·         From Operator-Managed to Pilgrim-Enabled: While you still must book your travel and visa through a licensed South African Umrah operator, the official permit and mosque appointments are now managed directly by you, the pilgrim, on the Nusuk platform.

·         Mandatory Digital Permit: Your authorization to perform Umrah is a digital permit with a QR code issued exclusively through umrah.nusuk.sa or the Nusuk app. This is checked by authorities at the gates of the Holy Mosque.

·         Direct Appointment Booking: You personally book your preferred time slots for Umrah and for visiting the Rawdah in Al-Masjid an-Nabawi in Madinah.

·         Streamlined Process: The platform integrates your visa information (provided by your tour operator) to seamlessly generate your permits, creating a unified government system for your journey.

1.2 Essential Prerequisites Before You Start

1.        A Valid Passport: Your passport MUST be valid for at least six (6) months from your planned date of entry into Saudi Arabia.

2.        A Valid Umrah Visa: This is secured and processed for you by your licensed South African Umrah tour operator. You cannot proceed without this.

3.        A Recent, Professional Photograph: Prepare a digital, colour photograph against a plain white background that meets the strict specifications.

4.        A Digital Vaccination Certificate: Ensure you have a clear digital copy of your mandatory meningitis (ACYW135) vaccination certificate. The vaccination must be valid (typically for 5 years) and administered no less than 10 days before your arrival in Saudi Arabia.

5.        A Secure Email Address and Smartphone: This email will be your primary point of contact for all platform communications and account verification. The smartphone is essential for using the Nusuk app and displaying your permits on the ground.

Section 2: Step-by-Step Guide to Nusuk Umrah Registration & Permits

Step 1: Account Creation & Pilgrim Profile

1.        Access the Official Portal: Go to the official Nusuk Umrah website: https://umrah.nusuk.sa

2.        Create an Account: Click on "Register".

o Enter your active email address and create a strong password.

o You will receive a One-Time Password (OTP) via email for verification. Enter this to verify your account.

3.        Complete Your Personal Profile:

o Fill in all required personal details accurately as they appear in your passport and visa:

§  Full Name

§  Nationality (South African)

§  Passport Number

§  Date of Birth

§  Gender

o Crucially Important: Your details on the Nusuk profile MUST BE AN EXACT 100% MATCH with your passport and Umrah visa. Any discrepancy will lead to your permit being rejected and you will be denied entry to the Holy Mosques.

Step 2: Adding Pilgrim Companions (If Applicable)

·         If you are managing the permits for family members (spouse, children), you can add them as "Companions" within your main account.

·         You will need to complete the full profile and enter the required passport and visa details for each companion individually.

·         The main applicant will be the primary manager for issuing permits and booking appointments for the entire group.

Step 3: Document Upload - Specifications & Formats

This is a critical stage for profile accuracy. While your operator handles visa documents, your Nusuk profile must be perfectly aligned.

Document

Specification

Format

Size

Additional Notes

Passport Copy

A clear, colour scan of the bio-data page. Ensure all text, the MRZ (machine-readable zone), and the photograph are fully visible.

PDF or JPG/JPEG

< 5 MB

Passport must be valid for >6 months from entry.

Personal Photo

A recent (last 6 months) colour photograph against a plain white background.

JPG/JPEG

< 5 MB

Dimensions: 200x200 px to 500x500 px.
Females: Must wear a white hijab, leaving the face clearly visible. Do not wear Niqab.
Males: Should not wear a head covering unless for religious reasons, in which case the face must be fully visible.
Both: Neutral expression, eyes open and clearly visible, no glasses, no shadows.

Vaccination Certificate

A clear digital copy or scan of the official meningitis (ACYW135) certificate.

PDF or JPG/JPEG

< 5 MB

Must show your name, date of vaccination, and vaccine type.

Step 4: Umrah Permit Application (After Arrival in Saudi Arabia)

You can only complete this step once you have entered the Kingdom.

1.        Initiate Permit Request: Once your profile is complete and you are in Saudi Arabia, navigate to the "Umrah Permits" section on umrah.nusuk.sa or the Nusuk app.

2.        Select Pilgrims: Choose yourself and any companions you wish to include in the permit.

3.        Browse Available Time Slots: The platform will display a calendar with available dates and time slots for performing Umrah.

4.        Select Your Slot: Choose a date and time that suits your schedule. It is advisable to book a day or two in advance.

5.        Confirm and Issue: Review all details and confirm. The Umrah Permit with a QR code will be generated instantly and is available in your account and via email.

Step 5: Rawdah Appointment Booking (For Madinah)

1.        Navigate to the Service: From the main dashboard, select the service for "Visit the Prophet's Mosque."

2.        Choose Date and Time: The system will show available slots for your visit to the Rawdah. Select your preferred time.

3.        Confirm Booking: Review and confirm the appointment. You will receive a digital permit with a QR code for this visit.

Section 3: Post-Registration & On-the-Ground Guidance

·         Monitor Your Nusuk Account: Regularly check your account and email for your permits and any updates. Permits are time-sensitive.

·         Carry Your Digital Permits at All Times: You must have the Nusuk app installed on your phone with your active Umrah and Rawdah permits readily available. Authorities will scan the QR codes at the entry points of the Holy Mosques.

·         Adhere to Permit Times: Strictly arrive within the date and time window specified on your permits. Early or late arrival may result in denied entry.

·         Prepare for a Digital Experience: The entire process, from verification to guidance within the Haram, is now digitally managed. Ensure your phone is charged and you have mobile data.

·         Stay Informed via Your Operator: While Nusuk manages the permits, your licensed South African operator remains your primary contact for flights, accommodation, transport, and overall travel logistics.

Summary Checklist for a Successful Umrah Journey

·         Passport is valid for >6 months from entry.

·         Umrah Visa secured through a licensed South African operator.

·         Digital Photo taken against a white background, meeting all specifications.

·         Meningitis Vaccination certificate is ready, valid, and digitally available.

·         Nusuk Account created and verified via email.

·         Pilgrim Profile is 100% complete, with details matching the passport and visa exactly.

·         Umrah Permit applied for and issued after arriving in Saudi Arabia.

·         Rawdah Appointment booked via the platform (if visiting Madinah).

·         Nusuk App installed on your smartphone, with permits saved and accessible.

·         Phone and permits are carried when going to the Holy Mosques.