Saudi Arabia has announced sweeping changes to the Umrah pilgrimage process, introducing ten new rules to ensure transparency and order. Pilgrims must now apply for a dedicated Umrah visa through the Nusuk platform and book approved hotels and transport during the visa process. Staying with relatives requires linking the host’s Saudi ID, while tourist visas can no longer be used for Umrah. Authorities will verify bookings at airports, and only authorized taxis, buses, or trains may be used. The Haramain train will not run after 9 PM, requiring advance transport arrangements for late arrivals. Some travelers from the UK, US, Canada, and Schengen nations may receive visas on arrival under specific conditions. Travel itineraries submitted with visas cannot be altered, and overstaying will incur heavy fines. Both pilgrims and agents face strict penalties for violations, with fines starting from 750 riyals. The new rules aim to streamline the Umrah journey and prevent misuse of the system.