The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has unveiled a new boarding and group travel system for 2026 pilgrims, with each ticket digitally tied to the Nusuk card. The cards will be pre-positioned in designated buses that convey pilgrims to hotels in Makkah and Madinah.
Pilgrims will remain in the original groups under which their visas were processed. Each group of 45 will travel, lodge and return together, with no post-visa regrouping allowed.
Accordingly, pre-arrival data must be uploaded on the Nusuk Masar platform 72 hours before departure. Any pilgrim who fails to board after being ticketed will be recorded as a no-show and may bear the cost of the unused seat.
The Ministry has also introduced a boarding card that must be issued before take-off, containing accommodation, travel and group details.
In a statement signed by Deputy Director, Information and Public Relations, Fatima Sanda Usara, the Commission directed state boards to fast-track outstanding remittances to prevent forfeiture of camps and accommodation slots.
NAHCON also reiterated enforcement of Saudi Arabia’s medical eligibility requirements, noting that pilgrims with disqualifying conditions will be stopped from travelling and may bear deportation costs.
Air Peace, Fly Nas, Max Air and Umza Air remain listed as 2026 carriers, though NAHCON indicated allocations may be adjusted based on operational reviews.
