Saudi Arabia Introduces Mandatory Meal Fee for Umrah Pilgrims, Visa Cost to Increase

Saudi Arabia has introduced a mandatory meal fee for Umrah pilgrims, adding a new cost to the Umrah visa process. Under the latest policy, pilgrims will be required to pay approximately 20 Saudi Riyals per day, with the amount automatically included in their visa fee.

The idea of the new initiative is to simplify the meal arrangements for the pilgrims and enhance their stay in the Kingdom.

Mandatory Meal Fee Added to Umrah Visa

The new guidelines state that the daily meal charge will collected along with the Umrah visa fee. There will no additional charge for the service for pilgrims, as the charge will incorporated into the processing of the visa applications.

Before traveling, pilgrims will receive a special meal code through the Nusuk app. It can redeemed at over 10,000 participating restaurants in Saudi Arabia for easy access to meals during their pilgrimage.

First Phase Targets Four Countries

The compulsory meal fee will apply to those who go on Umrah from the following places initially:

• Pakistan
• India
• Bangladesh
• Egypt

Saudi authorities may expand the program to additional countries in future phases.

Travel Agents Asked to Update Umrah Packages

Agencies arranging Umrah Tours asked to update their Umrah packages to include the new required meal charge. They also reminded to go through the Nusuk system for the processing of applications and avoid unnecessary delays in visa processing.

The new move is part of Saudi Arabia’s continuous efforts to modernize the services provided for pilgrims during the Umrah through digital solutions and enhance the pilgrimage journey for millions of people annually.