[REVISION HISTORY]

Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Nigeria update Hajj management

Updated 10 times since CLSTR started tracking revisions of this situation.

What changed

2026-09-14 06:23 UTC → 2026-09-21 23:12 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Saudi Arabia continues to expand its religious tourism and service oversight. Under the “Khadem Al‑Haramain Al‑Sharifain” program, the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance recently hosted a second batch of 250 pilgrims from 23 countries, followed by preparations for a third group of 250 guests from 23 African nations. To regulate the sector, the Saudi Tourism Ministry has introduced classification standards for accommodation in Mecca and Medina, while the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah advances its Innovation and Entrepreneurship Program. For the 2027 Hajj season, the Saudi Ministry has initiated preparatory meetings with Hajj affairs offices from over 75 nations. Logistical and administrative measures for 2027 are being implemented globally. In Chad, ORGEP is cooperating with Saudi authorities to implement the mandatory Massar digital platform, a new shuttle system, and a dedicated pilgrim clinic. In Senegal, a ‘one-stop shop’ system is being introduced to centralize medical and logistical formalities. In South Africa, officials have pledged to strengthen bilateral cooperation, aiming to resume direct Saudia flights in 2027, digitize processes via the Nusuk system, and reduce visa turnaround times to approximately 24 hours. Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille and Saudi Minister Dr Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah are working to establish a joint working group to promote destination exchange and halal tourism. In India, the Directorate of Health and Family Welfare Services has mandated that pilgrims selected for the 2027 pilgrimage complete their first medical fitness check by September 15. Meanwhile, in Pakistan, preparations include digital application systems, and in Nigeria, the Federal Capital Territory Muslim Pilgrims’ Welfare Board has set the 2027 Hajj fare for Abuja pilgrims at N7,672,822. ~~In response to growing demand,~~ Despite requests from Nigerian states such as Lagos and Jigawa ~~are requesting~~ for additional ~~Hajj slots from the National~~ slots, Saudi authorities have rejected Nigeria’s request to increase its 2027 Hajj ~~Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON).~~ pilgrimage allocation.

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