Saudi Ministry of Hajj approves 2026 service provider evaluations

The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has approved the evaluation results for international service providers for the 2026 Hajj season. This initiative, aligned with Saudi Vision 2030 and the Pilgrim Experience Program, aims to improve service quality and transparency.

Providers are categorized into three tiers: Level One (Outstanding Performance), Level Two (Very Good Performance), and Level Three (Good Performance). Evaluations are based on two main criteria: Compliance and Adherence (60%) and Quality of Service Performance (40%). The assessment process includes field monitoring, documented evidence, and pilgrim satisfaction ratings.

Concurrently, in Indonesia, the West Sumatra regional office of the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has announced stricter oversight of Umrah travel agencies. Authorities are targeting unlicensed operators, particularly those attempting to use the identities of licensed providers to mislead the public. This enforcement aims to ensure legal accountability and protect pilgrims during their religious journeys.