By: Abdullah Bugis
Journalist and writer based in Kuala Lumpur.

Saudi Arabia is launching the “Umrah for Children” program in November 2024, as part of its Vision 2030 plan to expand religious tourism and attract 30 million Umrah performers annually. Managed by the Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) and facilitated by the Nusuk platform, this initiative is designed to enrich the religious journey for younger pilgrims through educational and cultural activities. For Malaysian families, this program offers a unique and enhanced pilgrimage experience that combines spirituality, education, and convenience.

The Vision 2030 and Its Broader Impact

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 aims to diversify the economy, with a significant focus on tourism. The goal is to increase the sector's GDP contribution from 3% to over 10% and create one million jobs. The “Umrah for Children” program is a strategic part of this vision, providing families with a structured way to engage their children in religious rituals while exploring Saudi Arabia’s rich cultural heritage. This is especially appealing to Malaysian Muslims who value both religious practice and cultural experiences.

The Role of Nusuk Platform

Central to this program is the Nusuk platform, a government-backed digital service designed to simplify the Umrah experience. With Nusuk, Malaysian pilgrims can apply for e-visas in minutes and access customized travel packages that cater specifically to families. The platform is available in 10 languages and supports pilgrims from 66 countries, including Malaysia, making the process straightforward and accessible. For Malaysian families, this reduces travel stress, making it easier to embark on a spiritual journey with young children.

What the Program Offers Young Pilgrims

Traditionally, Umrah has been centered around fulfilling religious rituals. The “Umrah for Children” program goes a step further, integrating educational and cultural activities tailored to younger audiences. Children can visit Makkah’s Hira Cultural District, the Clock Museum, and participate in tours to historical and cultural sites in Jeddah, Madinah, Taif, and Al-Ula. These activities are designed to instill a deeper understanding of Islamic history and heritage in an engaging manner.

For Malaysians, who often view pilgrimage as a multi-generational experience, this program adds tremendous value. It transforms the journey into an enriching trip that balances religious devotion with learning, making the experience more fulfilling for children. The inclusion of nurseries and childcare centers near the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque allows parents to perform religious rituals while their children are engaged in age-appropriate activities.

Tailored Family-Friendly Services

One of the standout features of the program is its tailored approach to travel logistics. It offers family-focused services that make traveling more manageable, such as direct flights, family-centric accommodations, and simplified itineraries. For Malaysian families, who often travel with multiple generations, these amenities provide convenience and ensure that the pilgrimage remains enjoyable and less stressful.

These family-friendly packages can foster a stronger spiritual connection, particularly for younger pilgrims, by making them feel included in the religious experience. Parents from Malaysia can now consider performing Umrah with their children, knowing that the journey will cater to their needs and provide meaningful engagement for all ages.

Strengthening Religious and Cultural Identity

For Malaysian Muslims, maintaining and nurturing their religious and cultural identity is essential. The “Umrah for Children” program offers an invaluable opportunity to strengthen that identity in a comprehensive way. By participating in educational tours and activities, children learn about Islamic traditions and history in a real-world context, deepening their understanding and appreciation for their heritage.

This is especially beneficial for Malaysian families living in multicultural settings, where maintaining strong religious roots can be challenging. The structured activities provided by the program encourage children to connect with their faith in a way that goes beyond traditional learning, enriching their spiritual journey and reinforcing their Islamic identity.

Economic and Cultural Advantages

Beyond the religious and educational benefits, the program also has potential economic implications. Increased participation in Umrah by Malaysian families could foster deeper partnerships between Saudi Arabia and Malaysia’s tourism and travel sectors. This surge in religious tourism can create more demand for travel agencies, airlines, and other related services, contributing to economic growth and job creation in Malaysia’s tourism industry.

Culturally, the program promotes an exchange of knowledge and experiences. Malaysians who participate can bring back insights and stories that enrich their local communities and foster a deeper understanding of Islamic heritage.

A Comprehensive, Family-Oriented Pilgrimage

The “Umrah for Children” program is redefining religious tourism by making it more inclusive and family-friendly. By incorporating educational activities, cultural exploration, and tailored services for families, Saudi Arabia is setting a new standard for what a pilgrimage can mean for young Muslims. For Malaysian families, this initiative makes the sacred journey not just a religious obligation, but a comprehensive, educational, and spiritually fulfilling experience.

The seamless integration of Nusuk’s digital services, family-centric facilities, and enriching educational activities makes this program an attractive option for Malaysian Muslims. It promises a journey that strengthens spiritual bonds, nurtures cultural identity, and fosters family unity, all while ensuring the logistics are simplified and the experience is memorable. As Saudi Arabia continues to blend tradition with modern tourism practices, Malaysian pilgrims stand to benefit greatly from these innovations.