The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has unveiled a set of new regulations governing accommodation, transportation, catering, camps, payments, medical requirements, and sacrificial rites for the 2026 Hajj season.
According to the South African Hajj and Umrah Council (SAHUC), only licensed Saudi service providers will now be permitted to arrange accommodation, catering, and transport in Makkah, Madinah, Aziziyah, and during the five days of Hajj.
Camp space in Mina and Arafat must be secured by 23 August 2025, with an estimated R9 million to be paid through the Nusuk Masar platform to guarantee reservations. Similarly, all Qurbani (Hadi/Dihm) sacrifices must be purchased exclusively through the official Adahi Project on the same platform, ending all private arrangements with farmers.
In a statement, the Ministry stressed that all payments related to service contracts must be made strictly through the Nusuk Masar system. This includes deposits, reservations, and contract payments. No payment outside the platform will be recognised, a move aimed at preventing money laundering and ensuring proper tax compliance.
The new rules also mandate that SAHUC contract with an authorised Saudi medical provider to supervise its medical team during Hajj. Every pilgrim must upload a valid medical certificate confirming fitness to travel.
Additionally, SAHUC confirmed it is engaging airlines to secure affordable and reliable flights for South African pilgrims, with flight schedules to be finalised before accommodation bookings can be confirmed.
