KUALA LUMPUR: The Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) recently launched Nusuk (nusuk.sa), the new umrah-integrated digital
platform, which welcomes pilgrims globally to experience umrah.
Nusuk, an initiative launched by the STA in collaboration with Vision 2030
Pilgrim Experience Program was announced in the presence of Saudi Arabia's minister of hajj and umrah Dr Tawfiq Fawzan Al-Rabiah.
Nusuk will expand the range of choices, enhance the overall experience for Muslims visiting Saudi Arabia, and enable more straightforward arrival procedures for visitors to perform umrah.
"As we open our doors to welcome back the largest group of pilgrims from around the world to Saudi Arabia post-pandemic, we look forward to providing an enriching and seamless booking experience with expanded travel options.
"This will take them on a spiritual journey across different Islamic attractions and offerings between Makkah and Madinah to experience this life-changing moment and discover Saudi Arabia's rich cultural and heritage offerings," Dr Tawfiq said in a statement.
STA chief executive officer and member of the board Fahd Hamidaddin said the agency is committed to making Saudi Arabia more accessible to all visitors.
"For pilgrims, we have launched the digital platform Nusuk designed for pilgrims and visitors to plan their spiritual journey seamlessly.
"Pilgrims from Malaysia can apply for an e-visa on the Nusuk platform and book special packages to Makkah, Madinah and beyond. We are also working with our partners to encourage pilgrims to explore our beautiful country and experience its many facets through our Umrah+ programs," said Fahd, who is also the managing director of Nusuk.
Malaysia is already a key tourism source market for Saudi Arabia.
The country has deepened relations with partners and is committed to investing and working closely with local players to ensure experiences are relevant and appealing to the Malaysian market.
Last year, Saudi Arabia welcomed 312,000 Malaysian visitors and this year the aim is to double visitor numbers.
To deliver on its ambitious goals, STA announced two key initiatives at the Malaysian roadshow, namely enhanced Umrah+ packages and the Stopover Visa.
The enhanced Umrah+ packages are designed to enable travellers to discover Saudi Arabia as a great holiday destination with rich cultural and historical offerings, pristine nature and diverse landscapes.
Saudi Arabia is home to 6 UNESCO World Heritage sites and over 10,000 archaeological sites that are waiting to be explored, including Al Balad in Jeddah and Turaif in Diriyah - the birthplace of Saudi Arabia together with the mountains of Aseer and little towns offering heritage and cultural experiences – allowing visitors to experience the true home of Arabia.
The recently announced Stopover Visa is open to all leisure, business and religious travellers flying on SAUDIA and flynas.
Travellers can experience a stopover in Saudi Arabia for up to 96 hours and enjoy a complimentary one-night hotel stay with Saudia.
This makes Saudi Arabia a perfect destination for Malaysians travelling to Europe, the United Kingdom and the United States.
Saudi has invested in several giga-projects such as Qiddiya, Neom, and the recently announced new Murabba in Riyadh called 'The Mukaab', which will be the world's largest modern downtown.
