Saudi Arabia introduces Hajj 2026 operator rules and systems

Saudi Arabia is scaling up digital screening, permit enforcement and transport operations ahead of Hajj 2026, which is scheduled to take place between 25 and 30 May 2026.

 

The latest measures focus on faster traveller processing, tighter crowd management and stronger oversight of Hajj operators, alongside expanded use of biometric systems and digital permits across airports, land crossings and seaports.

 

The integrated Hajj processing system will complete key pilgrim procedures before departure rather than on arrival, using facial recognition, biometric screening and mobile processing counters designed to reduce congestion during peak travel periods. 

 

Saudi Data & AI Authority (SDAIA) is overseeing the digital infrastructure alongside immigration, logistics and airport teams. The mobile processing systems are intended to support elderly pilgrims and travellers with disabilities by reducing queue times and simplifying entry procedures. 

 

The kingdom is also tightening permit controls and oversight of pilgrimage operators. Electronic permits for Hajj workers and residents are now being issued through Saudi Arabia’s Absher and Muqeem government platforms, which manage residency, visa and travel authorisations. Meanwhile, the Nusuk Card, a digital ID linked to pilgrim permits and accommodation details, will serve as the primary identification document for pilgrims and workers across holy sites. 

 

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The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has approved 73 companies to provide services for domestic pilgrims after operators met requirements covering accommodation, transport, catering and support services. Authorities also warned pilgrims to book only through licensed operators and official platforms amid rising fraudulent Hajj campaigns and fake online advertisements.

 

The approvals follow wider reforms introduced in November 2025, when Saudi abolished traditional tawafa organisations and replaced them with licensed Hajj hospitality companies under amendments to the Foreign Pilgrim Service Providers Law. Under the revised framework, operators are directly responsible for accommodation, transport and pilgrim services, while the ministry can appoint alternative providers in cases of non-compliance.

 

Saudi authorities have reaffirmed that official Hajj permits remain mandatory. The Ministry of Interior warned that individuals attempting to perform Hajj without permits could face fines of up to SAR20,000 (US$5,300), deportation and a 10-year re-entry ban. Restrictions on entering Makkah (Mecca) without valid permits also remain in place during the pilgrimage season.

 

Separately, Saudi this week reversed an earlier decision to raise the minimum Hajj age to 15, meaning children above 12 years old remain eligible to perform the pilgrimage. The Ministry of Health has also instructed pilgrims to receive recommended vaccinations at least 10 days before Hajj, including meningococcal disease, Covid-19 and seasonal influenza vaccines.

 

For more information, visit www.haj.gov.sa