Nusuk App & Rawdah Permit Guide

Your complete walkthrough for creating an international visitor account, booking the sacred Rawdah Ash-Sharifah prayer slots, and navigating permits seamlessly.

How the Nusuk Platform Works

Managed by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, Nusuk is the mandatory gateway for all international pilgrims visiting the Holy Sites.

Step 1

Download App

Install 'Nusuk' on iOS or Android before departing the USA.

Step 2

Register Visitor

Link your US passport & Saudi eVisa number to create your profile.

Step 3

Select Slot

Choose an available prayer slot in the Rawdah Ash-Sharifah.

Step 4

Show Permit

Display your QR code permit at the Madinah courtyard gate.

How to Register on Nusuk as an American Pilgrim

You do not need to wait until arriving in Saudi Arabia to register your Nusuk profile. As soon as Hateem Travels issues your Saudi Tourist eVisa or Umrah Visa, you have all the required details to create your account from home in Virginia, DC, or Maryland:

  1. Open the Nusuk application and select "New User".
  2. Choose the "Visitor / Gulf" tab (do not choose Citizen or Resident).
  3. Enter your Visa Number (found on the top-right corner of your official Saudi eVisa PDF).
  4. Enter your Passport Number, select your Nationality (United States or Green Card country of origin), and input your Date of Birth.
  5. Enter your active email address and US mobile number. Select a strong password.
  6. Input the 4-digit OTP (One-Time Password) sent to your registered email address to complete activation.

Rawdah Ash-Sharifah Visiting Schedules

To preserve dignity and safety, the General Authority divides access into dedicated Men's and Women's hours.

Brothers' Schedule

Morning Session • Night Session

Men enter the Rawdah primarily through Bab As-Salam (Gate 1) or the southern courtyard staging area.

  • Session 1: From Midnight (12:00 AM) until Fajr prayer.
  • Session 2: From Duhr prayer until 'Isha prayer (approx. 11:30 AM to 8:30 PM).
  • Includes passage past the sacred chambers of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, Abu Bakr (ra), and Umar (ra) for giving Salam.

Sisters' Schedule

Morning Session • Late Evening

Women enter through the northern courtyards via Bab Uthman (Gate 24 / 25) into the designated ladies' prayer enclosure.

  • Session 1 (Morning): From after sunrise (approx. 6:00 AM) until 11:00 AM.
  • Session 2 (Evening): From after 'Isha prayer (approx. 9:30 PM) until Midnight.
  • Sisters are organized into language cohorts with female supervisors guiding them smoothly to the green carpet.

Troubleshooting Common Nusuk Issues

Problem: "No slots available" (Calendar is grayed out)

Solution: The Saudi Ministry releases slot quotas in rolling weekly batches, predominantly on Fridays between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM Saudi Time (AST). Also check the app regularly 2 to 3 hours before desired times, as cancellations immediately recycle into available inventory.

Problem: OTP SMS not arriving on US Phone

Solution: Choose the "Send via Email" option in the verification prompt. Ensure your email spam/promotions folder is checked, or connect to a local Saudi data SIM (STC/Mobily) upon landing in Jeddah or Madinah.

Problem: Poor internet connection at Mosque Courtyard Gate

Solution: As soon as your permit is approved in the app, take a clear screenshot of the QR code with your name and appointment time visible. Security barcode scanners can read the saved image even if your mobile cell service drops.

Nusuk App Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a Nusuk permit to pray regular daily prayers in Masjid an-Nabawi?

No. The normal prayer areas, courtyards, and rooftop of Masjid an-Nabawi in Madinah and Masjid al-Haram in Makkah are open freely 24 hours a day for all five daily prayers without any permit. Nusuk permits are specifically required for praying inside the Rawdah Ash-Sharifah (the Garden of Paradise between the Prophet's pulpit and house) and for performing Umrah on the ground Mataf.

What is the difference between Nusuk Umrah and Nusuk Hajj?

The Nusuk App (mobile app) is used by international tourists and Umrah pilgrims year-round for Rawdah and Umrah time slots. Nusuk Hajj (web platform at hajj.nusuk.sa) is the separate government electronic lottery and booking portal exclusively used for Hajj pre-registration and package selection. Hateem Travels provides guidance on both.

What happens if my flight is delayed and I miss my slot?

If you cannot attend your reserved slot, cancel it in the app prior to the appointment time. This resets your eligibility cooldown so you can book another open slot later in your stay.

Experience Madinah in 5-Star Comfort

Our pilgrims stay at the closest hotels to Masjid an-Nabawi, including The Oberoi Madinah and Dar Al Taqwa, just steps from the gates of the Prophet's Mosque.

Explore Madinah Hotels Chat with Our Team