RIYADH: In a significant step to facilitate a seamless pilgrimage experience, Saudi Arabia will begin issuing Hajj visas to intending pilgrims worldwide from February 8, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah announced.
The early launch is part of an accelerated timeline aimed at enhancing service readiness and ensuring the comfort of pilgrims nearly four months before the rituals, aligning with the Kingdom’s ambitious Vision 2030.
“Contracts covering 100% of services at the holy sites for pilgrims arriving from abroad have been finalised, along with all accommodation contracts in Makkah through the Nusk platform,” the ministry confirmed.
So far, 750,000 pilgrims have registered, with packages already booked for 30,000 pilgrims directly from their home countries.
The ministry added that around 485 camps have been allocated for international pilgrims at the holy sites, and 73 Hajj affairs offices have completed their basic contractual arrangements, ensuring a fully prepared infrastructure for a smooth pilgrimage.
Pakistan registers 179,000 Hajj pilgrims
In Pakistan, registration has concluded for 119,000 government pilgrims and 60,000 private pilgrims, said Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousaf.
He noted that preparations for Hajj were well underway in accordance with the Saudi timeline, with arrangements for food, transportation, and other essential services finalised through a competitive process.
Training sessions using audio-visual facilities were held at 147 locations nationwide, equipping pilgrims with the guidance needed to maintain discipline, safety, and awareness throughout their journey.
With these comprehensive preparations in place, pilgrims can expect a well-organised, safe, and spiritually enriching Hajj experience in 2026.
