Saudi Authorities Implement Digital Card to Regulate Hajj Pilgrimage
As part of the "No Pilgrimage without Authorization" program, Saudi authorities have taken measures to combat irregular pilgrimage and improve services offered to pilgrims. According to Abid Talhami, head of the digital transformation department at the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, one of these key measures is the introduction of a digital card called "Nusuk".
The Nusuk Card: A Digital Identity for Pilgrims
The Nusuk card is systematically issued upon obtaining a pilgrimage visa, allowing pilgrims to access sacred pilgrimage sites in Mecca and Medina. For pilgrims residing in Saudi Arabia, the card will be distributed by service providers after obtaining the necessary authorization. Abid Talhami notes that nearly 4,500 people are working on this program.
A Digital Solution for Pilgrim Management
The Nusuk card is designed as a digital identity card, aiming to control the flow of pilgrims, identify official pilgrims, ensure their safety, and offer a range of services. During the last Hajj season, nearly 2 million digital Nusuk cards were issued. The card is equipped with a specific code, allowing security, health, and customs authorities to automatically read it.
Accessing the Nusuk Card via Mobile Apps
In reality, according to TAWAF agency, the Nusuk card is accessible in a digital version through two mobile applications: Nusuk and Tawakkalna.