Saudi Arabia has officially begun preparations for the 2026 Hajj, with visa issuance starting on February 8 as part of a structured operational rollout. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah had earlier published an official calendar, reflecting a push to complete key arrangements well ahead of pilgrims’ arrival. Authorities say the accelerated schedule is aimed at improving coordination and planning among participating countries. Preparations for the 2026 Hajj season (1447 AH) began as early as June 8, 2025 (12 Dhu Al Hijjah 1446 AH), when preliminary planning documents were circulated to Hajj affairs offices worldwide.
In early Safar, these offices received detailed data on camps at the holy sites via the Nusk Masar digital platform, allowing for thorough review and logistical preparation. Contracting for accommodation and essential services commenced on 1 Rabi Al Awwal 1447 AH, while October 12, 2025, was set as the cut-off to conclude preparatory meetings, finalize operational data, and open pilgrim registration in participating nations. During Jumada Al Awwal, the ministry formalized major service agreements and held a Hajj services exhibition to enhance coordination between public authorities and private-sector partners.
Entering the final phase in early 2026, contracts for accommodation in Mecca and Medina, as well as transport and services at the holy sites, were scheduled for completion in January. Visa processing officially opened on February 8, with the next stage involving the finalization of visas and submission of pilgrims’ pre-arrival readiness data through March. The first batches of pilgrims are expected to arrive in Saudi Arabia on April 18, 2026 (1 Dhu Al Qadah 1447 AH), marking the beginning of the final operational stretch before Hajj.
Officials have emphasized strict adherence to the announced schedule to ensure infrastructure and services are fully prepared ahead of arrivals. All contracts covering services for international pilgrims have been completed, and accommodation arrangements in Mecca have been finalized through the Nusk platform. To date, approximately 750,000 pilgrims have registered for the 2026 season, including around 30,000 who secured packages directly from their home countries. About 485 camps have been assigned to international pilgrims, and 73 Hajj affairs offices have fulfilled their primary contractual obligations.
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