Travel advice
- Visa: Norwegian citizens need a visa to perform Umrah or Hajj. Hajj can only be performed with a specific Hajj visa, which must be obtained through an authorized travel agency. Umrah can be performed with a Umrah visa or an e-visa (if eligible). Tourist visas are not valid for Hajj.
- Nusuk – Official Hajj platform:
All pilgrims must use the official website hajj.nusuk.sa to register, select authorized travel packages, and stay informed. This platform is mandatory for all international pilgrims.
Using unauthorized providers may result in denial of entry or restricted access to pilgrimage sites. - Travel agency: Only use licensed and approved Hajj and Umrah operators listed on Nusuk.
- Quota restrictions: Hajj travel is subject to national quotas. Availability may be limited.
- Health requirements:
Proof of vaccination against meningococcal disease (ACWY) is mandatory, administered at least 10 days prior to arrival and not older than 5 years.
Additional vaccinations such as seasonal flu, COVID-19, and yellow fever (for travelers from specific countries) may also be required.
Detailed and updated information is available in the official Saudi health guide:
👉 Download PDF guide
Visit www.moh.gov.sa for current health guidelines. - Register on reiseklar.no:
Norwegian citizens are strongly advised to register their trip on www.reiseklar.no. This enables the Embassy to reach you quickly in case of a crisis and provide timely consular support. - Children: For safety reasons, the Saudi authorities have set a minimum age of 15 years for Umrah and Hajj.
- Women: Saudi Arabia has lifted the requirement for a male guardian or special travel conditions for women for Umrah and Hajj. See more information at https://hajj.nusuk.sa/.
- Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance covering illness, accidents, and evacuation is strongly recommended.
- Weather conditions: Pilgrimage takes place in extreme heat. Be prepared for heatstroke and dehydration—take all necessary precautions.
- Safety: Follow local authority instructions. Large crowds can be dangerous. Stay informed and alert.
The Embassy’s role
The Norwegian Embassy in Riyadh can provide consular assistance if needed, but we have limited capacity to assist during the pilgrimage itself.
In case of emergency, contact:
- Embassy in Riyadh: +966 11 488 0100
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Operations Centre (Oslo): +47 23 95 00 00