The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has recently launched the Nusuk pilgrim card, which will be in use for the upcoming annual pilgrimage of Hajj 2024. This new card was presented to the Indonesian Minister of Religious Affairs during a visit to Indonesia, where discussions were held regarding the final preparations and ways to streamline services for the pilgrims of Indonesia. Saudi Arabia is making continuous efforts to provide ease and comfort for pilgrims, and the Nusuk card is the latest in a series of reforms aimed at achieving this goal.
The Nusuk pilgrim card is designed to raise the efficiency of operational procedures for the upcoming Hajj season, making the pilgrimage easier and more simplified for pilgrims. The card, available in digital and physical formats, will help in identifying and verifying the identity of each pilgrim, as well as preventing unauthorized individuals from entering the holy sites. This will ensure the safety and security of all pilgrims during their journey.
Pilgrims are required to carry the Nusuk card during their travel and movements throughout the Hajj period, from their arrival until their departure. The card is mandatory for entry and travel within the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah, as well as for movement between the Holy Sites of Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah. The card contains key information about the pilgrim, such as personal data, address, health records, and details of their respective Hajj mission.
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has urged pilgrims, both domestic and foreign, to obtain the Nusuk card before their arrival at the Holy Sites. Pilgrims can access the digital version of the card through the Nusuk and Tawakkalna applications, by scanning the QR code on the printed card. The card provides a wide range of services, including proving the pilgrim’s identity, verifying their data for better services, receiving special alerts, and filing observations and complaints via the digital platform.
In addition to the launch of the Nusuk card, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah had previously warned against fake Hajj campaigns and bogus Hajj service providers. Pilgrims are advised to apply for Hajj only through official agencies and channels to avoid falling into traps. The ministry also launched the “Jusoor Initiative” to enhance communication with countries around the world and facilitate procedures for the arrival of pilgrims to the Two Holy Mosques.
The Muslim World League has appreciated the statement issued by the Saudi Council of Senior Scholars, which emphasizes the importance of obtaining a permit to perform Hajj. This statement aims to address undesirable behavior from some pilgrims that may cause harm to legal pilgrims and disrupt the smooth operation of Hajj services. The Nusuk pilgrim card is part of Saudi Arabia’s efforts to ensure a hassle-free and safe pilgrimage experience for all pilgrims, emphasizing the importance of following official channels and guidelines for performing Hajj.