Saudi Arabia Opens Early Visa Applications For Hajj 2026

Saudi Arabia has started issuing visas for 2026, starting February 8. Hajj is an annual religious pilgrimage to the city of Mecca that draws millions of Muslims from around the world. The early visa issuance is part of the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah's plan to make sure everything is ready well before pilgrims arrive. Preparations for Hajj 2026 began as early as June 2025, when planning documents were sent to offices worldwide that manage travel for this holy pilgrimage. These offices later gained access to detailed information about accommodations and camps at the holy sites through a digital platform called Nusk Masar, allowing them to coordinate efficiently.

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“The first groups of pilgrims are expected to arrive in Saudi Arabia on 18 April, 2026, marking the start of the season's final operational phase,” the ministry said, as per The Business Standard.

The use of the Nusk Masar digital platform and electronic wallets helps manage contracts and payments, speeding up processes and reducing confusion. The ministry said that sticking to the timeline is essential for “delivering a safe, efficient and dignified pilgrimage.”

What Is Hajj?

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Hajj is one of the most important religious duties in Islam, required of Muslims at least once in their lifetime if they are physically and financially able. It takes place during a specific month of the Islamic calendar and involves several rituals in Mecca and nearby holy sites. For many, it is a spiritual journey of reflection, prayer, and community.

For 2026, Hajj is expected to take place between May 24 and 29, though the exact dates depend on the sighting of the moon.

Also Read: India Signs Hajj Agreement With Saudi Arabia, 175,025 Quota Fixed For 2026

How Saudi Arabia Is Preparing For Hajj 2026

• Accommodation and service contracts began in late 2025 and were completed by January 2026.
• Pilgrim registration opened in October 2025 and is now ongoing.
• Major service agreements and exhibitions were organised to coordinate between government offices and private companies providing food, transport, and lodging.

So far, around 7.5 lakh pilgrims have registered. This includes 30,000 who booked travel packages directly from their home countries. The ministry has allocated 485 camps for international visitors, and 73 Hajj offices have completed their basic preparations, as per The Business Standard.

The Kingdom is using technology to make Hajj smoother for everyone involved. The Nusk Masar platform and electronic wallets help organise payments, contracts, and travel data.