Payment for domestic Hajj packages: Hajj and Umrah authorities set a 72-hour deadline
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia announced the regulations and requirements for the upcoming Hajj season of 1447 AH. The Ministry outlined the specific procedures for applications and acceptance for all citizens and residents wishing to perform the pilgrimage. In this context, the Ministry emphasized the importance of adhering to the 72-hour deadline for paying the fees for domestic Hajj packages, starting from the date of booking. The Ministry confirmed that this deadline will officially end on the 27th of Dhu al-Qi'dah, ensuring the smooth organization of the booking process and providing fair and accessible opportunities for all applicants.
Application requirements and registration priority for domestic Hajj packages
The Ministry clarified that priority for registration this year will be given to citizens and residents who have never performed Hajj before, in order to allow the largest possible number of Muslims the opportunity to perform the fifth pillar of Islam. An exception to this requirement is the requirement of a male guardian (mahram) for women who have not previously performed Hajj. The instructions indicated that this condition will remain in effect until the end of Shawwal, after which registration will be open to all based on remaining seats and available capacity. The Ministry also stipulates that the national ID for citizens or the residency permit for residents must be valid until the end of Dhul-Hijjah 1447 AH, and that residents must have resided in the Kingdom for at least one full year. Applicants must also be at least 15 years old according to the Gregorian calendar.
Digital development in serving the pilgrims
These regulatory measures are part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which prioritizes serving pilgrims and facilitating their spiritual journey. Over the past few years, the Hajj and Umrah sector has undergone a massive digital transformation through the launch of advanced electronic platforms such as the “Nusk” platform and the electronic Hajj portal for domestic pilgrims. This transformation has directly contributed to eliminating fraudulent campaigns, simplifying contracting and payment procedures, and guaranteeing the rights of both pilgrims and service companies. The 72-hour payment deadline is part of this digital system to ensure that seats are not reserved frivolously, thus enabling the rapid and efficient allocation of opportunities.
The organizational and health impact of ensuring the safety of pilgrims
The importance of these regulations extends beyond organizational and financial aspects to include health and security considerations that directly impact the safety of pilgrims locally, regionally, and internationally. As the custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, the Kingdom is committed to implementing the highest health standards to prevent diseases and epidemics during these massive gatherings. In this regard, the Ministry has mandated that all pilgrims receive the meningococcal meningitis vaccine at least 10 days before Hajj, in addition to recommending vaccination against seasonal influenza and the COVID-19 virus for the 2025-2026 season. These preventative measures contribute to global health security, ensuring that pilgrims return to their countries healthy and safe, thus preventing the spread of cross-border diseases.
Payment mechanism and cancellation policy
Regarding the payment mechanism, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah clarified that the 72-hour grace period is reduced to only 6 hours starting from the 28th of Dhul-Qa'dah to expedite the process as the Hajj season approaches. As for the cancellation and refund policy, cancellation is completely free of charge before payment. If the Ministry of Interior refuses to issue a Hajj permit, only the electronic service fee of SAR 67.85 will be deducted. If a confirmed booking is canceled between the 1st of Dhul-Qa'dah and the end of the month, 10% of the contract value will be deducted in addition to the service fees. Pilgrims are not entitled to any refund (100% deduction) if their booking is canceled from the 1st of Dhul-Hijjah onwards, except in officially documented cases of force majeure such as death, disability, or traffic or criminal offenses that prevent pilgrimage.
