The Hajj is a religious journey that crosses national, linguistic, and cultural lines. Every year, millions of Muslims go on this journey. The Hajj is not only a religious duty but also one of the five pillars of Islam. It’s something that changes you spiritually in a way that lasts.
The Saudi Arabian Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has officially announced that Hajj 2026 (1447 AH) visas will be issued beginning on February 8. This is a big step forward in getting ready for the upcoming pilgrimage season.
You can now officially sign up for the Hajj 2026. This is the start of this life-changing trip. This guide offers all you need to know about planning your first holiday or helping a loved one make theirs. It covers topics such as who can go, how to register, dates, and travel tips.
Who Can Apply for the Hajj 2026 Visa?
Hajj visas are issued strictly under Saudi regulations. You are eligible to apply if:
- You are a Muslim adult meeting Hajj eligibility criteria
- You are registered through your country’s official Hajj authority or licensed Hajj operator
- You meet health and vaccination requirements
- You haven’t done the Hajj in the last five years, as long as your country has its own limits.
- You are within the age range that the Saudi government says you can be for the 2026 Hajj.
- Each country has a set number of spots available, so signing up early is strongly suggested.
- Women younger than 45 should travel with a mahram unless their country allows it in certain situations.
Hajj 2026 Visa Requirements
To apply for a Hajj visa, pilgrims must prepare the following documents:
- Confirmed Hajj registration from official authorities
- Recent passport-size photographs
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- Medical fitness certificate from an approved medical center
- Vaccination certificates, including meningitis and other required vaccines
- Biometric verification (mandatory in many countries)
- Confirmed Hajj package details (accommodation, transport, and services)
Medical and Vaccination Needs for Hajj in 2026
To get a Hajj visa, you must have a recognized medical condition. Pilgrims have to go through medical tests to make sure they are healthy enough to do the Hajj ceremonies and don’t have any diseases that could spread.
Most of the time, the following shots are needed:
- For meningococci to cause meningitis
- Seasonal influenza
- As per current guidelines, COVID-19 (if it applies)
Pilgrims should pay close attention to what the government says because the Saudi government may change health rules.
Bio-metric Requirement for Hajj Visa
Saudi Arabia requires biometric enrollment for Hajj visa applicants in many countries. This includes:
- Fingerprints
- Facial recognition
Biometrics must be completed at authorized Saudi visa centers before visa issuance. Without biometrics, the Hajj visa will not be processed.
How to Apply for Hajj 2026 Visa?
The Hajj visa application process generally follows these steps:
- Register for Hajj through your country’s official Hajj authority portal (https://hajj.nusuk.sa/)
- Choose an approved Hajj package or operator
- Complete medical tests and vaccinations
- Submit documents for biometric verification
- Hajj operator submits your visa application through the Saudi Hajj system
- Receive your Hajj visa approval once issued
Individual applications are not accepted; all visas are processed through authorized channels.
Hajj 2026: Important Dates You Should Know
Make sure to note the following important milestones for Hajj 2026:
- Hajj Registration Opens: August 1, 2026
- Registration Cut-off: October 31, 2026 (may close earlier once the quota is filled)
- List of Selected Pilgrims Announced: Between November 15 and November 20, 2026
- Final Payment Deadline: December 15, 2026
- Expected Start of Hajj: May/June 2026, beginning on 8th Dhul Hijjah 1447 AH
First Pilgrims to Arrive on April 18, Marking Final Hajj Phase
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah says that the first groups of pilgrims should arrive in Saudi Arabia on April 18, 2026, which is the same as 1 Dhu Al Qadah 1447 AH. This marks the start of the last operating phase of the Hajj season.
Authorities stressed that strict adherence to the announced timeline is essential to ensure that infrastructure, lodging, transportation, and services are ready when pilgrims arrive.
On-Ground Progress and Registration Update
- All service contracts for international pilgrims at the holy sites have been completed
- Accommodation arrangements in Mecca have been finalized through the Nusuk platform
- Nearly 750,000 pilgrims have registered for Hajj 2026 so far
- Around 30,000 pilgrims have booked Hajj packages directly from their home countries
- Approximately 485 camps have been allocated for international pilgrims at the holy sites
- 73 Hajj affairs offices have completed their basic contractual requirements
These figures highlight the large-scale preparations underway and the strong global participation expected for Hajj 2026.
Role of Nusuk Masar and Digital Services
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah highlighted the growing role of Nusuk Masar and electronic wallet systems in handling payments and service contracts. These digital systems are designed to:
- Make the process more transparent
- Reduce delays and speed up procedures
- Prevent booking issues and confusion
This shift toward digital platforms is a major step in Saudi Arabia’s plan to modernize Hajj services and provide a smoother experience for pilgrims.
How to Prepare for Your First Hajj ?
- Learn Hajj rituals beforehand using reliable guides or apps
- Be patient with crowds, delays, and physical demands
- Pack essentials like unscented toiletries, easy footwear, a prayer mat, and water
- Stay hydrated and rest whenever possible
- Keep in touch with your group leader
- Follow health and safety guidelines
- Focus on duas and spiritual intentions
- Avoid conflicts and stay calm throughout the journey
Final words:
The opening of Hajj 2026 visa applications marks the beginning of a sacred journey for millions of pilgrims. With limited quotas and strict requirements, early registration, complete documentation, and compliance with health and biometric rules are crucial for a smooth experience.
If you are planning Hajj in 2026, start preparations now, stay updated with official announcements, and apply only through authorized Hajj channels to avoid fraud or delays.
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