Complete guide to performing Hajj and Umrah from Kuwait — for Kuwaiti citizens and all expatriate nationalities. Nusuk app, visa requirements, costs, vaccinations, and step-by-step process.
May 25Hajj 2026 starts
NusukOfficial platform
3,600Kuwait Hajj quota
Updated May 2026✓ Sources: Saudi Ministry of Hajj · Nusuk · Kuwait Ministry of Awqaf · Wego
⚠️ Disclaimer: Hajj and Umrah rules, dates, and requirements change frequently. Always verify current requirements on nusuk.sa and the Saudi Ministry of Hajj before making any bookings. KuwaitCalculator.com accepts no liability for reliance on this information.
Non-Muslims are not permitted to enter Makkah or Madinah's holy sites. Umrah is exclusively for Muslims of all nationalities.
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Age
18+ (minors with guardian)
Adults 18 and over can apply independently. Minors must travel with an adult guardian who applies on their behalf.
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Passport
6+ months validity
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of travel. A machine-readable passport is required.
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Vaccination
Meningitis ACWY required
Meningococcal meningitis (ACWY) vaccination is mandatory. Must be taken at least 10 days before arrival. Certificate required.
🇰🇼 Kuwaiti Passport
Kuwaiti Citizens — Visa-Free Entry
Kuwaiti nationals enter Saudi Arabia without a visa for Umrah
✅ Kuwaiti citizens do not need a visa for Saudi Arabia. You can enter using your Kuwaiti national ID card or passport — visa-free as a GCC citizen. However, you still need to register your Umrah on the Nusuk app and obtain your Umrah permit before performing the rituals in Masjid Al-Haram.
1
Download the Nusuk App
Download the official Nusuk app (iOS / Android) or use the web at nusuk.sa. Create an account with your Kuwait national ID or passport number.
2
Book Umrah Permit on Nusuk
Select your Umrah date and time slot. Book your accommodation in Makkah and Madinah through Nusuk or a licensed provider. As of 2026, Nusuk accommodation booking is mandatory before performing Umrah.
3
Book Rawdah Visit (Madinah)
To visit the Prophet's Mosque (Rawdah al-Sharifah) in Madinah, you must book a permit through Nusuk in advance. Slots are limited and fill quickly — book as early as possible.
4
Travel to Saudi Arabia
Drive via Nuwaiseeb border crossing (most popular from Kuwait — approx 5–6 hrs to Madinah, 12–14 hrs to Makkah) or fly from Kuwait International Airport to Jeddah or Madinah. Show your Civil ID or passport at the border.
5
Perform Umrah
Wear Ihram before crossing the Meeqat boundary. Show your Nusuk permit when entering Masjid Al-Haram. Perform Tawaf, Sa'i, and Halq/Taqsir as guided.
🌐 Expats in Kuwait
Expat Residents — Visa Process by Nationality
Your Kuwait Civil ID does not replace your Umrah visa — you apply based on your passport nationality
📌 Important: Your Kuwait residency (Civil ID) does not give you visa-free access to Saudi Arabia for Umrah. You apply for an Umrah visa based on your passport nationality. However, holding a valid Kuwait Civil ID (with 3+ months remaining) qualifies you for the Saudi tourist eVisa which can also be used for Umrah.
💡 Saudi Tourist eVisa + Umrah: If your nationality is eligible for the Saudi tourist eVisa (visa.visitsaudi.com), you can use it to perform Umrah — no separate Umrah visa needed. Register your Umrah permit on Nusuk after arrival. This is now the simplest route for many nationalities.
1
Get your Umrah Visa or Saudi eVisa
Apply via visa.visitsaudi.com (tourist eVisa — most nationalities, usable for Umrah) or through a licensed Umrah travel agent in Kuwait for a dedicated Umrah visa. Processing: 24 hrs–10 days depending on type and nationality.
2
Register on Nusuk & Book Accommodation
Create account on nusuk.sa. Book accommodation in Makkah and transport through Nusuk or a licensed provider. 2026 rule: accommodation and transport must be booked on Nusuk before your visa is issued — non-compliance causes automatic rejection.
3
Get Meningitis Vaccination
Meningococcal ACWY vaccination is mandatory. Get it at least 10 days before travel. Available at Kuwait government health centres (free) or private clinics (~KD 5–15). Keep the certificate — it will be checked at the border.
4
Travel to Saudi Arabia
From Kuwait: fly from Kuwait International Airport to Jeddah (King Abdulaziz International) or Madinah. Alternatively drive via the Nuwaiseeb/Salmi border crossing — very popular for families. Kuwait Airways, flydubai, Air Arabia all operate direct Jeddah flights from KWI.
5
Obtain Umrah Permit & Perform
On arrival, book your Umrah time slot on the Nusuk app if you haven't already. Show permit at Masjid Al-Haram entry. Also book your Rawdah visit (Madinah) on Nusuk in advance — slots are very limited.
Official App
📱 The Nusuk App — What You Need to Know
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What is Nusuk?
Saudi Arabia's official pilgrimage platform. Mandatory for all Umrah permits, Rawdah bookings, accommodation, and transport in 2026. Download on iOS or Android — search "Nusuk".
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Umrah Permit
Book your Umrah time slot through Nusuk. Each permit allows entry to Masjid Al-Haram for a specific time window. Book well in advance — popular slots fill fast.
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Rawdah Permit
Visiting the Prophet's Mosque (Rawdah al-Sharifah) in Madinah requires a separate Nusuk permit. Separate permits for men and women. Book the moment you know your travel dates.
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Accommodation Booking
As of June 2025, accommodation must be booked through Nusuk or licensed providers who comply with Nusuk requirements — this is now checked during visa processing.
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Transport
Book transport between Jeddah airport, Makkah, and Madinah through Nusuk. Licensed providers integrate with Nusuk for compliance. Required for visa in 2026.
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Visa Validity (2026)
Umrah visa is valid for 30 days from the date of issuance (not entry date). You must enter Saudi Arabia within these 30 days. Overstay fines apply and affect future visa applications.
💡 Download Nusuk and create your account before approaching a travel agent — it saves time and you can compare packages directly. Official links: nusuk.sa · App Store · Google Play search "Nusuk".
Checklist
📋 Documents Required for Umrah
Document
Requirement
Passport
Valid for at least 6 months from travel date. Machine-readable.
Umrah Visa / Saudi eVisa
Applied in advance. Print confirmation or have digital copy on phone.
Nusuk Permit
Umrah permit booked via Nusuk app. Screenshot/download offline.
Meningitis Vaccination Certificate
ACWY vaccination — taken at least 10 days before travel. Original certificate.
Accommodation Booking
Confirmation from Nusuk-compliant hotel or provider.
Return Flight / Travel Ticket
Proof of onward/return journey (for visa purposes).
Photo (passport-size)
Recent colour photo, white background. Usually uploaded during visa application.
Kuwait Civil ID (expats)
Not required for Saudi entry, but carry it as ID proof.
Mahram Letter (women under 45)
Women under 45 must travel with a mahram (male guardian) or as part of an organised group. Requirements vary — check latest Saudi rules.
Health
💉 Vaccinations Required for Umrah 2026
Vaccine
Status
When
Where in Kuwait
Meningococcal ACWY
✅ Mandatory
At least 10 days before travel
Govt health centres (free) or private clinic (KD 5–15)
All-inclusive packages from Kuwait travel agents typically range KD 350–1,500+ per person depending on hotel proximity and grade. Packages close to Masjid Al-Haram (Abraj Al-Bait area) are significantly more expensive.
Practical Tips
🎒 Umrah Tips & What to Pack
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Ihram (Men)
Two pieces of seamless white cloth. Buy in Kuwait (Indian shops in Salmiya, Islamic shops in Kuwait City) or in Makkah. Carry sandals that are easy to remove.
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Clothing (Women)
Full modest Islamic dress. No specific colour requirement. Comfortable walking shoes — you will walk 5–10 km per day during Umrah rituals. Abayas widely available in Makkah.
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Heat
Makkah in May–June reaches 45°C+. Pack a compact misting fan, electrolyte sachets, and sunscreen. Stay hydrated — drink Zamzam water frequently. Heatstroke is a real risk.
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Download Offline
Download Nusuk maps, duas, and all permits offline. Mobile data can be very slow during peak times in Makkah. Charge your phone fully before rituals.
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Medications
Bring any personal medications in original packaging with a doctor's letter in Arabic/English. Pain relief, antidiarrheal, and antihistamine are useful to have.
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Comfortable Shoes
The most important item. You will remove shoes many times. Choose slip-ons or sandals that are supportive. Label your footwear inside — many look identical.
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Saudi Riyals
Carry some SAR cash. Exchange in Kuwait before you go (NBK, KFH, exchange companies) or withdraw from Saudi ATMs with your Kuwait debit card. Most hotels accept cards.
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Emergency Contacts
Save Saudi emergency: 911. Hajj emergency: 920001820. Your tour operator number. Kuwait Embassy in Riyadh: +966 11 488-1461. Enable international roaming on your Kuwaiti SIM.
⚠️ All Hajj dates depend on moon sighting. The dates below are based on astronomical calculations — official confirmation comes from the Saudi Supreme Court closer to the time.
Event
Expected Date 2026
Hijri Date
8 Dhul Hijjah — Yawm al-Tarwiyah
25 May 2026 (Sunday)
8 Dhul Hijjah 1447
9 Dhul Hijjah — Day of Arafat 🕌
26 May 2026 (Monday)
9 Dhul Hijjah 1447
Eid al-Adha (10 Dhul Hijjah)
27 May 2026 (Tuesday)
10 Dhul Hijjah 1447
Days of Tashreeq (11–13 Dhul Hijjah)
28–30 May 2026
11–13 Dhul Hijjah 1447
Hajj season ends (approximate)
~10 Jun 2026
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🗓 The Day of Arafat (9 Dhul Hijjah) is the most important day of Hajj — missing it means Hajj is not valid. Plan arrival in Saudi Arabia no later than May 23 to be safe.
🇰🇼 Kuwaiti Citizens
Kuwait Citizens — Ministry of Awqaf Process
📌 Kuwait's Hajj quota is approximately 3,600 pilgrims per year. Managed by the Kuwait Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs. Kuwaiti nationals cannot independently book Hajj — they must go through the Ministry's official process.
1
Register with Ministry of Awqaf
Applications open annually through the Kuwait Ministry of Awqaf portal or authorised Hajj campaign offices. Registration typically opens several months before Hajj. Note: priority is given to those who have not previously performed Hajj.
2
Selection & Notification
The Ministry selects pilgrims based on the quota and notifies approved applicants. You can verify your status through the Kuwait e-government portal Ministry of Awqaf e-services.
3
Hajj Package & Visa Processing
Your assigned Hajj operator handles the Saudi Hajj visa, flights, accommodation in Makkah and Madinah, ground transport between holy sites, and guided support throughout the pilgrimage. All included in the package fee.
4
Vaccination & Health Check
Meningitis ACWY vaccination is mandatory. A medical fitness certificate may be required, especially for older pilgrims. Your operator will advise on specific requirements.
5
Fly from Kuwait International Airport
All Kuwait Hajj flights depart from Kuwait International Airport (KWI). Kuwait Airways, Jazeera Airways, and Saudi carriers operate Hajj charter and scheduled flights to Jeddah and Madinah. Your operator arranges the ticket.
🌐 Expats in Kuwait
Expat Residents — How to Register for Hajj
💡 Expats residing in Kuwait apply for Hajj through their home country's official Hajj authority — not through Kuwait. Your Kuwait residency does not give you access to Kuwait's Hajj quota. Each country has its own Hajj committee managing the national quota.
🚫 Important: You cannot enter Makkah during Hajj season without a valid Hajj visa and permit. Attempting to enter without a permit carries heavy fines and deportation. There is no "self-arranged" Hajj for most nationalities — you must go through an official channel.
Platform
💻 Nusuk Hajj Platform
1
Register on Nusuk Hajj
Go to hajj.nusuk.sa. Create an account with a valid email and passport number. Registration typically opens October–November for the following year's Hajj.
2
Upload Documents
Upload passport scan (6+ months valid), vaccination certificate, recent photo. Ensure all details exactly match your passport — errors cause rejection.
3
Activate eWallet & Select Package
Top up your Nusuk eWallet using a bank card or transfer. Browse accredited service providers and select a package (economy, standard, premium). Pay to confirm your quota — allocation is first-come-first-served.
4
Receive Hajj Visa & Travel
Your operator processes the Hajj visa after payment. Travel to Saudi Arabia as per the package itinerary. All movement between Makkah, Madinah, Mina, and Arafat is arranged by the operator.
The Pilgrimage
🕋 Key Hajj Rituals — Brief Overview
Day
Date 2026
Ritual
Location
8 Dhul Hijjah
25 May
Yawm al-Tarwiyah — Enter Ihram, travel to Mina
Makkah → Mina
9 Dhul Hijjah
26 May
Yawm Arafat — Standing on Mount Arafat (Wuquf) — most important day
Depends on package tier — flights, hotel, meals included
🇮🇳 India (govt quota)
~KD 1,200–1,800
Subsidised government package via Haj Committee
🇵🇰 Pakistan
~KD 1,500–2,500
Via Pakistani Hajj operator, varies by province
🇬🇧 UK / 🇺🇸 US (via Nusuk)
~KD 3,000–6,000
Nusuk packages: economy to luxury tiers
🇪🇬 Egypt
~KD 1,200–2,000
Via Egyptian Awqaf Ministry operator
Preparation
✅ Hajj Preparation Tips
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Register Early
Hajj quotas fill within days of registration opening. Set a reminder for when your country's Hajj authority opens registration (typically Oct–Dec for the following year's Hajj).
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Health Check
Get a full medical check-up before Hajj. Hajj involves intensive physical activity in extreme heat. Consult your doctor especially if you have heart, diabetes, or blood pressure conditions.
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Heat Preparation
Makkah in May 2026 will exceed 45°C. Train by walking in heat. Pack a misting fan, electrolytes, quality sunscreen (SPF 50+), and lightweight clothing that stays cool.
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Nusuk App Offline
Download everything offline on Nusuk before arrival. During Hajj, Makkah's mobile network is severely overloaded. Save permits, maps, and duas offline.
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Spiritual Preparation
Learn the Hajj rituals, duas, and their meaning before travelling. Attend pre-Hajj seminars offered by your operator or Kuwait mosques. Read a reliable Hajj guide.
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Emergency Numbers
Saudi emergency: 911 · Hajj emergencies: 920001820 · Kuwait Embassy Riyadh: +966 11 488-1461 · Pilgrims Affairs emergency line (check with operator)
FAQ
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can expats in Kuwait perform Umrah using their Kuwait Civil ID?▼
No — the Kuwait Civil ID does not replace an Umrah visa. Expats apply for Umrah based on their passport nationality. However, holding a valid Kuwait Civil ID with 3+ months remaining qualifies many nationalities for the Saudi tourist eVisa (visa.visitsaudi.com), which can also be used for Umrah. Kuwaiti citizens enter Saudi Arabia visa-free using their national ID or passport.
Can I drive to Makkah from Kuwait for Umrah?▼
Yes — many families drive from Kuwait via the Nuwaiseeb/Salmi border crossing into Saudi Arabia. The drive to Madinah is approximately 5–6 hours, and to Makkah approximately 12–14 hours. Kuwaiti citizens can enter immediately. Expats must have their Saudi visa ready before reaching the border. This is a very popular and cost-effective option for families, especially during Ramadan Umrah.
When is Umrah not possible? (Hajj blackout period)▼
Umrah visas are suspended for a period around Hajj season. In 2026, the suspension window covered the weeks surrounding Hajj (late May). During this period, only authorised Hajj pilgrims can enter Makkah. Always check Nusuk (nusuk.sa) for the current Umrah visa status before booking travel. The suspension typically begins about 2–3 weeks before Hajj and ends a week or so after.
Is the Nusuk permit required to enter Masjid Al-Haram?▼
Yes. Since 2021, Saudi authorities require pilgrims to book Umrah time slots via the Nusuk app. The permit is checked at the entrances to Masjid Al-Haram. Attempting to enter without a valid Nusuk permit can result in being turned away. Book your permit through the Nusuk app (nusuk.sa) as soon as you arrive in Makkah — some time slots fill within hours.
What is the best time to perform Umrah from Kuwait?▼
The best times for Umrah from Kuwait are outside peak periods: September–November (post-Hajj, less crowded, cooler weather beginning), and January–February (moderate temperatures, lower hotel rates). Ramadan Umrah (March/April 2026) is spiritually highly rewarding but extremely crowded and more expensive. Avoid the Hajj blackout period (late May 2026). Summer (June–August) is possible but Makkah exceeds 45°C daily.
Can a woman perform Umrah without a mahram from Kuwait?▼
Saudi Arabia has progressively relaxed mahram (male guardian) requirements for Umrah. As of 2026, women over 45 can travel in organised groups without a mahram. Women under 45 may also travel in groups with a licensed operator — but requirements vary by country of origin and change frequently. Always verify the latest Saudi Ministry of Hajj rules at haj.gov.sa before booking, as these rules evolve year to year.