What is a Nusuk Card?
The Nusuk Card is an official smart identification document issued by Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. Available in both physical and digital forms, it is mandatory for all registered Hajj pilgrims — required from the moment of arrival in Saudi Arabia until departure. The card grants access to Mina, Arafat, Muzdalifah, and all other holy sites (Mashaer), while verifying that each holder is a legally authorised pilgrim.
The digital version of the Nusuk Card is accessible through the Nusuk app (for all pilgrims) or the Tawakkalna app (for domestic pilgrims in Saudi Arabia).
Why the Nusuk Card Matters
The Nusuk Card is the sole official document recognised within Saudi Arabia to confirm a pilgrim’s identity and legal entry to perform Hajj. It plays a practical role in managing one of the world’s largest annual gatherings by bringing together identity, medical, and logistical information in a single document.
According to the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, the card provides:
- The pilgrim’s personal information and medical records, accessible to authorities and healthcare providers
- Accommodation addresses in Makkah, the holy sites, and Madinah — helping officials reunite lost pilgrims with their groups
- Information about the pilgrim’s assigned service provider company
- Organization of bus boarding and group transfers across the holy sites
- Access to enrichment services including faith-based content, complaint submission, and more via the Nusuk app
“No Hajj without permit” is strictly enforced. The Nusuk Card is essential for access and travel within the sacred cities of Makkah and Madinah, as well as movement between the holy sites of Mina, Arafat, Muzdalifah, and the Masyair area.
Key Features and Services
The Nusuk Card functions as both an identity document and a gateway to pilgrim services. Through the Nusuk app, pilgrims can access the digital card alongside a full suite of features:
- Faith-based services — Holy Quran, prayer times, remembrance, and supplications
- Issuing Umrah permits
- Booking a visit to the Noble Rawdah
- Booking hotels and flight tickets
- Booking sightseeing tours in Makkah and Madinah
- Submitting complaints and requests to service providers
- Downloading the Hajj completion certificate after the pilgrimage
How to Obtain a Nusuk Card
The process varies depending on whether you are an international or domestic pilgrim. Both physical and digital versions are available.
- International pilgrims: The physical Nusuk Card is delivered directly by the pilgrim’s service provider company after Hajj registration and visa issuance.
- Domestic pilgrims: The card is issued by the service provider upon obtaining a Hajj permit.
- Digital card (all pilgrims): Download the Nusuk app (Android, iOS, Huawei AppGallery), create an account, and tap the ‘Nusuk Card’ icon to access your card.
- Digital card (domestic pilgrims): Also accessible via Tawakkalna (Android, iOS), which integrates with national identity services.
Pilgrims can select their Hajj package through the Nusuk app, which exclusively lists official travel agencies providing government-approved packages. The Saudi government prohibits unofficial Hajj packages. Non-GCC nationals travelling to Saudi Arabia for Hajj must also obtain a specific Hajj visa — only visa holders are permitted to participate in the pilgrimage.
How to Use the Nusuk Card During Hajj
The Nusuk Card must be carried at all times throughout the pilgrimage — it is an active tool, not a document to be stored away. Pilgrims should:
- Keep the card on their person from arrival in the Kingdom until departure
- Present it when entering holy sites, boarding group transportation, or accessing pilgrim services
- Use it to verify group gathering points during crowded transfers
If you are separated from your group, authorities can scan the card to identify your accommodation address and guide you back to your group.
What to Do if Your Nusuk Card is Lost
Losing the physical card does not need to disrupt your pilgrimage. The following steps are available:
- Inform your group leader or service provider company to request re-issuance of the physical card
- Access the digital card via the Nusuk or Tawakkalna app as a temporary or permanent alternative
- Visit the nearest Nusuk Care Center in person
- Call the Unified Call Center: 1966 (inside Saudi Arabia) or +966 920002814 (outside Saudi Arabia)
Makkah Entry and the Current Umrah Season
The pre-Hajj entry restrictions that ran through April and May 2026 have been lifted. Saudi Arabia opened the 1448 AH Umrah season on 31 May 2026, and Makkah entry with Nusuk permits has been available since 1 June 2026. The season runs until 7 April 2027. For the full calendar, see our Umrah 1448 AH season dates guide.
Sources
- Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah — Nusuk Card Official Page
- Nusuk Hajj Platform — FAQ
- Gulf News — Nusuk Card for Hajj 2026: Everything Pilgrims Need to Know
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.
