The U.S. Department of State has issued an essential advisory for all American citizens planning to travel to Saudi Arabia for Hajj or Umrah in 2025, warning pilgrims to strictly follow official guidelines and book exclusively through the Nusuk platform to avoid fraud, detention, or deportation.
Each year, millions of Muslims participate in the Hajj pilgrimage, held during a specific period of the Islamic calendar, and Umrah, which can be performed year-round. For 2025, the U.S. government is reinforcing traveler awareness and safety due to recurring incidents of scams, illegal agents, health risks, and immigration violations.
Booking Only via Nusuk Is Mandatory
Pilgrims—including U.S. citizens living in or outside Saudi Arabia—must obtain their Hajj visa and permit via the official Nusuk platform (Nusuk.Hajj.gov.sa). Any bookings, payments, or visa processing through unauthorized travel agents are strictly prohibited and may result in:
- Deportation or Detention
- Heavy Fines
- Bans from future travel to Saudi Arabia
All important information including Hajj packages, medical insurance, mobile apps required for holy sites, and vaccine details are accessible via Nusuk only.
Travel Restrictions During Hajj 2025
Once pilgrims arrive in Mecca and begin their Hajj, they cannot leave Saudi Arabia until the Hajj is complete. In emergencies, early departure requires special approval from the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.
Security and Scam Alerts
The advisory highlights ongoing threats and scams targeting pilgrims, including:
- Fake Hajj visas and unauthorized travel packages
- Fraudulent guides leaving pilgrims stranded
- Hotels requesting passports—do not hand them over
- Pickpocketing in crowded areas like Mecca and Medina
U.S. citizens are urged to carry copies of travel documents, keep emergency contact info on hand, and be alert in large gatherings.
Hajj and Umrah Visa Rules for 2025 for US Citizens
- Umrah can be performed on a tourist or Umrah visa
- Hajj must be performed on a Hajj visa from Nusuk
- Overstaying your visa can result in thousands of dollars in fines, detention, and future bans
- Hajj/Umrah visas do not permit work or residency
- Non-Muslims are strictly prohibited from entering Mecca and the sacred areas of Medina
Women and Accessibility
- Women may now perform Hajj without a male guardian
- Most holy sites are accessible, but many hotels and transport services are not—plan accordingly.
Photography Rules
- Avoid photographing others without consent
- Taking photos of government buildings or security forces is strictly prohibited
- Violations may result in confiscation of devices or fines.
Health and Heat Preparedness for Hajj 2025
With Mecca temperatures expected to exceed 105°F (41°C) in June, the advisory urges Hajj 2025 pilgrims to:
- Stay hydrated
- Wear light, loose-fitting clothing
- Use umbrellas and hats
- Rest regularly during peak heat.
Enroll in STEP for Emergency Updates
U.S. travelers should enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for real-time safety updates from the U.S. embassy or consulate and follow:
- @KSA_ACS
- @TravelGov (X / Instagram)
- U.S. Mission Saudi Arabia accounts for region-specific alerts.
What the U.S. Government Can and Cannot Do?
Can assist with:
-
- Emergency U.S. passports
- Replacing lost green cards
- Connecting detained or hospitalized travelers with families
- Referrals for medical and legal support.
Cannot assist with:
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- Travel arrangements or hotel bookings
- Intervening in immigration/legal disputes
- Paying medical or legal bills
- Getting you out of prison.
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