Hajj Visa Guide 2026: Everything You Need to Know

Almosafer
Jan 15
5 min read

For 2026, the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has refined the Nusuk Hajj platform into a three-tier system. It is important to note that Hajj visas are not sold separately; they are exclusively bundled within service packages.

Hajj Visa 2025: Everything You Need to Know — **Hajj 2025**

Hajj Dates for 2026 (1447 AH)

Based on the astronomical calendar, the Hajj rituals are expected to begin on the following dates (subject to the sighting of the new moon):

Beginning of the rituals (Day of Tarwiyah): Sunday evening, May 24, 2026.

Day of Arafah: Monday, May 25, 2026.

Eid al-Adha: Tuesday, May 26, 2026.

End of the rituals: Friday, May 29, 2026.

Hajj Visa Requirements for 2026

The Saudi authorities have introduced important updates to the eligibility requirements:

Legal Age: The minimum age for Hajj this year is 12 years.

Priority: Priority will be given to those who have not performed Hajj in the past five years.

Health Competence: A valid "Health Competence Certificate" is required. Individuals with severe chronic illnesses (such as advanced liver cirrhosis, kidney failure, or active cancer) are prohibited from performing Hajj.

Women: Women can perform Hajj without a male guardian (mahram) within a "Safe Group" (a women's group or an official pilgrimage group) through the Nusuk platform.

Hajj Visa Costs

The visa itself is free of charge. However, applications must be submitted via approved travel agencies offering Hajj packages, which include:

Accommodation
Transportation
Meals
Other essential services

Read more about:

How to Apply for a Hajj Visa

Contact an Authorised Travel Agency: Only use agencies recognised by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.
Prepare the Documents: Gather all necessary paperwork listed above.
Submit Your Application: Your agency will manage the process and communicate with the relevant authorities.
Visa Processing Time: Typically takes around 5 working days, but apply early to avoid delays.

Hajj 2026: Official Package Costs and Inclusions

In 2026, the Nusuk Hajj platform remains the sole gateway for British pilgrims. Below is a precise breakdown of the costs and what each tier provides, ensuring you have a clear picture for your spiritual journey.

1. Estimated Costs for UK Pilgrims (2026 Season)

Costs are categorized based on room occupancy (Quad, Triple, or Double) and the level of service. Figures are estimated in Great British Pounds (GBP):

Package Tier	Estimated Cost (per person)	Accommodation Highlights
Economy / Regular	£4,500 – £6,500	3 or 4-star hotels, often in Aziziyah or further from the Haram.
Premium	£7,500 – £11,500	4 or 5-star hotels (e.g., Makkah Towers) with better proximity.
Luxury / Platinum	£12,000 – £18,000+	Front-row 5-star hotels (e.g., Fairmont, Raffles) and VIP Mashair services.

2. Comprehensive Package Inclusions

The Hajj visa is never sold as a standalone item. It is part of a legally mandated "service bundle" which includes:

Accommodation: Hotels in Makkah and Madinah, as well as tents in the Holy Sites (Mina and Arafat).
Catering (Full Board): Three meals a day are provided, typically including an open buffet or high-quality pre-packed meals, with 24/7 access to hot and cold beverages in the camps.
Logistics & Transport: Transfer from the airport, internal travel between cities (Makkah/Madinah), and modern air-conditioned coaches for the five days of Hajj rituals.
Religious Guidance: Most UK packages include a dedicated "Murshid" (religious guide) and group leaders to assist with rituals in English.
The Nusuk Card: Your official ID for entry into the Holy Sites, included in your registration.

3. Critical Factors Influencing Price

Camp Proximity (The Mina Factor): Packages featuring Majar Al-Kabsh (Premium camps near the Jamarat) are significantly more expensive than those in the Al-Muaisim area.
Room Sharing: Sharing a room with four people (Quad) is the most economical way to book. Private rooms (Doubles) carry a substantial surcharge.
Flights: Most UK packages advertised on Nusuk for 2026 are "Inclusive of Flights" from major airports like Heathrow (LHR), Manchester (MAN), and Birmingham (BHX).

4. Important: The New Payment System

For 2026, the Saudi Ministry has introduced the "Package Preference Phase":

Shortlisting: You can select up to five preferred packages before the booking window opens.
The E-Wallet: You must fund your digital Nusuk E-Wallet in advance.
Instalments: A new instalment-based deposit system is available in some regions to help manage the payment process before final confirmation.

The Nusuk Hajj Platform

The Nusuk Hajj platform simplifies your pilgrimage preparation by enabling:

Online registration
Electronic Hajj permit issuance
Real-time application tracking

This digital service is part of the Kingdom's effort to modernise and streamline the Hajj experience.

Additional Travel Tips

Get Vaccinated: Complete all required vaccinations early.
Plan Ahead: Early booking ensures better prices and availability.
Use Accredited Agencies: Work only with approved Hajj operators for safety and reliability.

Read more:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Hajj 2026

Q1: Can I perform Hajj using a Tourist or Umrah visa in 2026?

No, absolutely not. In 2026, the Saudi authorities have strictly reinforced that Hajj can only be performed with a dedicated Hajj Visa issued through the official Nusuk Hajj platform. Attempting to enter the Holy Sites (Masha’er) with a tourist, business, or Umrah visa will result in heavy fines, immediate deportation, and a multi-year ban from entering Saudi Arabia.

Q2: What is the difference between "Shifting" and "Non-Shifting" packages? Answer: * Shifting Packages: These are generally more budget-friendly. You will move between different accommodations during your stay for example, staying in a hotel near the Haram initially, then moving to a residential building (like in Aziziyah) during the peak Hajj days to be closer to the ritual sites.

Non-Shifting Packages: These offer more convenience. You remain in the same Makkah hotel for the entire duration of your trip. While more comfortable, these packages carry a significantly higher price tag.

Q3: Can women perform Hajj without a "Mahram" (male guardian) in 2026?

Yes. Under the current 2026 regulations, women are permitted to perform Hajj without a Mahram, provided they travel as part of an official group or a "safe company" of other women. This option is clearly marked during the package selection phase on the Nusuk platform.

Q4: Is there an age limit for pilgrims in 2026?

Yes. The minimum age for pilgrims in the 2026 (1447 AH) season is 12 years old. Children under the age of 12 are not permitted to register for Hajj due to the physical demands and crowd safety protocols.

Q5: How do I pay for my Hajj package on Nusuk?

All payments must be made through the Nusuk E-Wallet. You can top up your wallet using a Visa or Mastercard or via an International Bank Transfer (IBAN).

Tip: It is highly recommended to use a credit/debit card that does not charge foreign transaction fees, as all payments are processed in Saudi Riyals (SAR).

Q6: What is the "Package Preference Phase"?

This is a new feature for 2026. Before the official booking window opens, you are required to browse the available packages and select up to five favourites. This does not guarantee a booking, but it ensures you can quickly "check out" and pay the moment the sales period begins, as the most popular packages sell out within minutes.

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