Local Umrah 2026: All You Need to Know About This Year’s Umrah for Saudi Citizens and Residents

Last updated: Sep 4, 2026

Last updated: September 2026

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What is local Umrah?

Umrah is a non-obligatory pilgrimage that Muslims can perform at any time outside the Hajj days. For Saudi citizens and residents planning a local Umrah trip to Makkah (and possibly Madinah), the core steps are booking through Nusuk, choosing a suitable time, and planning your logistics so the experience stays smooth.

The 1448 AH Umrah season is open, so Nusuk is issuing local Umrah permits now.

Do local pilgrims need an Umrah permit?

Yes. The Nusuk app (or the Nusuk website) is the official channel for local Umrah permits. Saudi authorities use it to manage access and crowd capacity at the Grand Mosque, so you should always assume you need to check availability and book your slot there.

Availability is dynamic. Depending on real-time crowd management, slots and QR codes may appear or disappear within the app, so it’s worth checking more than once if your first attempt shows nothing free.

If your trip extends to Madinah, visiting Al-Rawdah Al-Sharifah at the Prophet’s Mosque requires a separate permit within Nusuk. Rawdah permits are free and are issued with a QR code that security staff scan at the entrance.

These slots are often more limited than Umrah permits, especially during weekends, school breaks, and peak seasons. Check for availability as early as possible.

For a complete breakdown of how these permits work and when they are strictly enforced, please see our dedicated guide: Umrah Permit 2026: All You Need to Know About the Permit for the Minor Pilgrimage.

How to book local Umrah

Once you have a Nusuk account, you can book an Umrah slot/permit inside the app. Saudi citizens and expatriate residents normally sign in with their national ID or Iqama (linked through Absher), while international visitors use their visa or passport details.

Here’s the practical flow most local pilgrims follow.

Quick checklist

Your mobile number (for login/verification)
Your Iqama or national ID (residents and citizens usually link via Absher)
A realistic date range (so you can choose a slot that fits your travel and hotel check-in)
A simple plan for transport timing (hotel location, parking, taxi pickup points, etc.)

Step-by-step booking

Open Nusuk and sign in.
From the home screen, select Issue Umrah Permit (or the Umrah service shown in your version of the app).
Add any companions travelling with you, if applicable.
Choose your date and time from the in-app calendar (you can typically book up to around two months in advance; greener slots mean less crowded).
Tap Continue and confirm your booking.
Open your booking to view the details — reservation/permit number, time slot, and QR code.

After booking

Keep your booking details in Nusuk (and a screenshot as backup if you expect weak signal)
Carry your ID or Iqama
Aim to arrive early, especially during peak hours

If you can’t find a slot

Check again later in the day — availability can change.
Try different time windows and non-peak periods where possible.
If you’re going with family, search with flexibility first, then align everyone’s plans after you see what’s actually available.
Remember that during the annual Hajj season no Umrah permits are issued at all. Plan outside that window.

Local Umrah packages

If you prefer not to plan everything yourself, local Umrah packages can simplify the trip by bundling accommodation and transport. Nusuk also offers visa-free packages for GCC citizens, residents, and holders of any valid visa type through its official packages platform.

Packages vary widely depending on hotel distance, room type, travel dates, and included services.

What packages typically include

Accommodation in Makkah (and sometimes Madinah)
Transport support (varies by provider)
Shared-room or private-room options
Rawdah booking and ziyarah (heritage-site) arrangements on some comprehensive packages

How long should a typical trip be?

Short break (3–5 days): a focused Makkah trip (useful if you’re nearby or travelling on a tight schedule).
One week (6–8 days): common for combining Makkah and Madinah without rushing.
10–14 days: a slower pace with more rest time and flexibility.

Local Umrah FAQs

Where do I show my Umrah permit?

Inside Nusuk. Your permit is displayed in the app, typically with a QR code that staff scan at the Haram entry gates. Keep your ID or Iqama on you as well.

Is the Umrah permit tied to a specific time?

Yes. If you booked a specific slot in Nusuk, it’s tied to that date and time window. Plan your transport so you arrive early and avoid last-minute stress.

Can I change my booked slot?

Depends on your booking type. If rescheduling is available, you can typically manage it in the app by cancelling and selecting a new slot. Double-check inside Nusuk before your original slot begins.

Can I book for family members?

Yes, through the “companions” option. Nusuk lets you add companions (dependents or family travelling with you) to your Umrah permit booking. Set up accounts and documents early so you’re not troubleshooting right before departure.

Are Umrah permits available right now?

Yes. The 1448 AH season is open and Nusuk is issuing Umrah permits. Book your slot in the app before you travel to Makkah.

Do I need a Makkah entry permit as a resident?

Only during the Hajj season. Anyone whose iqama or national ID is issued outside Makkah needs a Makkah entry permit (Tasreeh) through Absher or Muqeem. Makkah-issued iqama and national-ID holders are exempt.

Sources

Disclaimer: Wego strives to ensure all information presented in this article is accurate and up to date at the time of publication. Travel policies, prices, visa requirements, and conditions can change rapidly. We strongly recommend verifying critical details with official sources before making travel decisions. Wego does not accept liability for any inaccuracies, oversights, or changes that may occur after publication.