Saudi Arabia Officially Opens Hajj 1447 AH Registration for Domestic Pilgrims
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah in Saudi Arabia has formally commenced the registration process for citizens and residents within the Kingdom who wish to undertake the sacred pilgrimage of Hajj for the year 1447 AH, corresponding to 2026 in the Gregorian calendar. This significant announcement marks the beginning of preparations for one of the world's largest annual religious gatherings.
Registration Process and Timeline Details
Registration officially opened on 6 Ramadan 1447 AH through the dedicated Nusuk Hajj platform, which is accessible via both the official website and the specialized Nusuk mobile application designed specifically for pilgrim convenience. The ministry has established a clear timeline, with Hajj package bookings scheduled to commence on 15 Ramadan, providing applicants with adequate time to complete their registration before selecting from available service packages.
This initial registration phase will continue through the end of Shawwal, with priority explicitly given to individuals who have never performed Hajj before. Should seats remain available after this period concludes, other eligible applicants may subsequently have opportunities to book packages as well.
Eligibility Requirements for Applicants
To qualify for Hajj registration, applicants must meet several specific conditions established by the ministry:
- Applicants must be at least 15 years old according to Gregorian calendar years
- All health requirements approved by the ministry must be satisfactorily met
- For residents, a valid residency permit is mandatory, with priority given to those whose residency has been valid for more than one year
These requirements ensure that registered pilgrims are both eligible and medically fit to undertake the physically demanding pilgrimage, which involves extensive walking and exposure to varying weather conditions.
Step-by-Step Registration Procedure
The registration process has been designed to be straightforward and secure:
- Pilgrims must create a personal account on the Nusuk platform or mobile application
- Complete all required personal information and eligibility verification checks
- Select preferred Hajj package(s) from those listed by licensed companies
- Make payment through the secure Sadaad payment system to obtain the official Hajj permit
Important Note: Registration must be completed personally by each pilgrim; group or third-party registration is strictly prohibited. All contracts and bookings must be made exclusively through licensed companies displayed on the platform, ensuring quality services and legitimate arrangements under Saudi government supervision.
Digital Transformation in Religious Tourism
This early registration initiative for domestic pilgrims reflects Saudi Arabia's ongoing efforts to enhance the Hajj planning and booking experience, particularly through prioritizing first-time pilgrims and making the entire process more user-friendly and accessible. The utilization of digital platforms like Nusuk helps centralize applications, minimize errors, and streamline communications between pilgrims and service providers.
This strategic move aligns with broader digital transformation objectives within the country's religious tourism sector, part of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 goals to modernize infrastructure and services. The timing of this domestic registration connects with international preparations already underway, including visa issuance for international pilgrims that began earlier in February as part of coordinated global systems for Hajj 2026 operations.
The ministry has encouraged pilgrims to register early to secure their preferred packages and has provided multiple support channels, including assistance through the Nusuk platform and the ministry's dedicated help number 1966 for those requiring additional guidance.
