Saudi Arabia: Ministry of Hajj and Umrah to begin issuing Hajj 2026 visas from Sunday

Saudi authorities have moved early on preparations for the next Hajj, opening the visa process months before pilgrims begin their journey, a step aimed at tightening planning and easing pressure during the peak season.The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has announced that visas for the 2026 Hajj season, corresponding to 1447 AH, began being issued on Sunday, February 8, which falls on Sha’ban 20. The early start places the Kingdom nearly four months ahead of the rituals, setting the tone for a more structured and predictable pilgrimage season.

Officials said the advanced timeline is part of a broader push to raise service readiness and improve pilgrim comfort.

The move aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 framework, which prioritises efficiency, service quality, and better crowd management across the Hajj and Umrah ecosystem.By initiating visa issuance well in advance, authorities aim to give pilgrims, service providers, and Hajj affairs offices more time to prepare, coordinate, and address logistical requirements before arrivals begin.

The ministry said contracts covering all services at the holy sites for pilgrims arriving from outside the Kingdom have been finalised.

Accommodation agreements in Makkah have also been completed in full through the Nusk platform, clearing a major operational milestone early in the cycle.In terms of demand, 750,000 pilgrims have registered so far. Packages have already been booked for 30,000 pilgrims directly from their home countries, reflecting early engagement with the system.

Preparations at the holy sites are advancing alongside visa issuance.

Around 485 camps have been allocated for international pilgrims, while 73 Hajj affairs offices have completed their basic contractual arrangements.The ministry said coordination is continuing with Hajj affairs offices and service providers both inside and outside Saudi Arabia to finalise remaining operational details and ensure consistency across services.

Officials described the early visa rollout as part of a proactive approach designed to reduce last minute challenges and deliver a more organised Hajj experience.The step forms part of a wider set of organisational and technical measures already under way. These include completing service contracts at the holy sites, approving accommodation and transport agreements, and preparing and allocating camps. Together, these measures are intended to support smooth operations and improve service delivery for millions of pilgrims expected to arrive for Hajj 2026.