Saudi Arabia introduces world’s first digital wallet for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims

The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah (MoHU) and the Saudi National Bank (SNB Al Ahli) have recently introduced the first global digital wallet targeting the international Hajj and Umrah market, named Nusuk Wallet. The blended digital wallet presents an integrated solution for finance and expending during the tawaf and Hajj processes, based on the well-established banking services offered by SNB AlAhli through the NEO brand.

Nusuk Wallet utilizes the state-of-the-art technology and advanced encryption tools to guarantee secure operations of users’ financial operations. The Nusuk Wallet was subsequently launched on Monday with Dr. Tawfiq Al Rabiah, the Minister of Hajj and Umrah, at the helm of the event.

Speaking on the importance of this feat, Ahmed bin Sulaiman Al Maiman, Director of Digital Experience at MoHU has noted the following six benefits which have been espoused by the launch of the digital wallet. In this regard, Al Maiman maintained that the Nusuk Wallet encompasses a blend of contemporary innovation and the particular needs of the user in leveraging sophisticated elements including artificial intelligence, enhanced encryption, and biometric identification.

First, it is distinguished as the first digital wallet as well as the international bank card designed exclusively for the participants of the Hajj and Umrah performances, thus opening up new vistas for the ease and safety of such activities.

Dr. Saleh Bin Ibrahim Al Furaih, CEO of SNB AlAhli’s Digital Ventures and Payments emphasized that Nusuk Wallet complies with the Saudi Central Bank (SAMA) information and guidelines concerning financial security and regulations that must be followed. In pursuit of this noble cause, MoHU stated its willingness to engage all the necessary parties as well as invited the private sector to share their ideas and solutions toward improving the pilgrimage experience.

A digital wallet refers to either an application or an online tool that facilitates the use of electronic cash or allows the storage of electronic tickets and documents.