Saudi Arabia will begin issuing Hajj visas for the 2026 (1447 Hijri) pilgrimage season starting tomorrow, February 8, according to an announcement from the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.

The decision is part of a comprehensive operational plan prepared for Hajj offices, aimed at ensuring service quality and completing preparations several months before pilgrims arrive in the Kingdom.

Preparations for the 2026 Hajj began well in advance, starting on June 8, 2025, which corresponded to 12 Dhul-Hijjah 1446 in the Hijri calendar. At that time, the Saudi ministry shared initial planning documents with Hajj authorities worldwide.

At the beginning of the pilgrimage season, Hajj offices were also provided with detailed information on tent allocations at the holy sites through the “Nusuk Masar” digital platform, giving them sufficient time for planning, coordination, and review.

According to the official schedule, contracts related to accommodation and core services began from 1 Rabi’ al-Awwal 1447 Hijri (late August 2025). The ministry has also announced plans to organize a Hajj exhibition to strengthen cooperation between government bodies and private-sector service providers.

Saudi authorities have urged Hajj offices and service companies to strictly follow the approved timeline to ensure pilgrims can perform Hajj safely and with dignity.

Preparations were further intensified at the start of 2026. Contracts for accommodation, transportation, and other services in Makkah and Madinah were finalized by January. Visa issuance will formally run from February 8, with the process expected to conclude in March, when final arrival and logistical data will be submitted.

The ministry stated that the first group of pilgrims is scheduled to arrive in Saudi Arabia on April 18 (1 Dhul-Qadah), marking the start of the final operational phase of the Hajj season. Authorities emphasized strict adherence to schedules to ensure infrastructure and services are fully ready on time.

The ministry reported significant progress in overall preparations. All service agreements for international pilgrims, including accommodation in Makkah, have been finalized through the Nusuk platform. So far, approximately 750,000 pilgrims have registered, including 30,000 who booked packages directly from their home countries.

Around 485 tents have been allocated at the holy sites for international pilgrims, and 73 Hajj offices have completed their preliminary contracts.

Saudi Arabia has once again called on all Hajj offices and service providers to comply fully with the established timetable to ensure a safe, organized, and respectful pilgrimage experience.