Saudi Arabia has announced a new policy for Umrah pilgrims from Pakistan, making a mandatory Nusuk meal voucher part of the Umrah visa process from 1st Rabi-ul-Awwal. The move is expected to increase the overall cost of Umrah packages for travelers from Pakistan and several other countries.
Under the new system, pilgrims from Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, and Egypt will pay an estimated 20 Saudi riyals per day for the meal voucher. The amount will be automatically included in the total Umrah visa fee during processing rather than charged separately.
Nusuk platform to manage meal services
Saudi authorities have integrated hotel bookings, transportation, catering, and other pilgrimage services through the Nusuk digital platform as part of broader efforts to modernize Umrah services.
Nearly 10,000 registered restaurants in Makkah and Madinah have been linked to the platform. Each pilgrim will receive a unique code with their visa, allowing them to redeem meals at participating restaurants based on their approved package.
Travel agencies reviewing package prices
The mandatory meal voucher is expected to increase the total cost of Umrah packages. Travel agencies in Pakistan and the other affected countries have started revising their package prices to reflect the additional expense.
Saudi officials say the initiative is intended to improve service quality, ensure access to hygienic meals, and eliminate the use of unregistered catering providers by integrating services through the Nusuk platform.
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