The Ministry of Minority Affairs has issued an important advisory for Indians planning to perform Hajj in 2026, urging them to finalise their bookings early through authorised Hajj Group Organisers (HGOs) and Private Tour Operators (PTOs). This call comes as Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has set strict deadlines for completing essential accommodation and logistics contracts needed for the pilgrimage.
Union Minister Kiren Rijiju emphasised that early booking helps avoid last‑minute complications and ensures proper arrangements for all pilgrims. He urged applicants to complete their booking procedures by January 15, 2026, since Saudi authorities require all housing and service contracts to be finalised by February 1, 2026.
Why Timely Booking Matters for Hajj 2026?
Hajj is a deeply significant religious obligation for Muslims, one of the five pillars of Islam, undertaken during the month of Zil‑Hijjah in the Islamic calendar. Millions of pilgrims travel each year to Mecca and Medina in Saudi Arabia to perform this sacred journey.
For Indian pilgrims, securing accommodation, transport, and other services requires formal agreements between tour operators and Saudi hosts. These agreements are mandatory to ensure services like housing in Mecca and Medina, and transportation logistics within the Kingdom.
Completing bookings well before the January 15 deadline gives HGOs and PTOs enough time to fulfil procedural requirements, including contract finalisation, and helps avoid issues that may arise if preparations are delayed.
What does the Ministry’s Notice Say?
According to the official advisory from the Ministry:
• Hajj pilgrims must book services through authorised HGOs and PTOs well in advance.
• Saudi Arabia has designated February 1, 2026, as the last date to finalise all housing and services contracts.
• Pilgrims should ideally complete bookings by January 15, 2026, to ensure timely procedural compliance.
• Prospective travellers must verify registration, quota and approval status of the HGO or PTO before paying any fees.
“These mandatory contractual arrangements are essential for ensuring accommodation, transport, and other logistical services for pilgrims in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia,” the advisory states.
Restore Quota and Booking Options for Indian Pilgrims
Pilgrims have welcomed the restoration of the Hajj quota for private tour operators (PTOs), which adds flexibility and choice for travellers. Around 52,000 slots will be available through private organisers this year, offering more options beyond the government‑organised scheme.
This renewed quota and the government advisory on early booking mean prospective Hajj participants have clear steps to ensure they secure their place on this once‑in‑a‑lifetime journey without facing preventable last‑minute hurdles.
Tips for Indian Hajj Applicants
To avoid issues:
• Book early: Secure your package through a registered HGO or PTO before January 15, 2026.
• Check authorisation: Confirm that your organiser is approved and has the right quota before paying.
• Verify contracts: Ensure the organising body finalises accommodation and transport contracts with Saudi hosts ahead of the February 1 deadline.
Understand the Hajj Process
The pilgrimage — normally spanning from the 8th to the 13th of Zil‑Hijjah — sees millions gathering in the holy cities of Mecca and Medina to perform rituals including Tawaf, Sa’i and standing at Arafat. Although visiting Medina is not officially part of Hajj, many pilgrims include it in their plans for spiritual reasons.
Indian pilgrims must plan well in advance, considering timelines for application, documentation, travel, and accommodation, to make this sacred journey smooth and spiritually fulfilling. Completing bookings within the advised period helps meet all Saudi and Indian regulatory requirements and reduces uncertainty for travellers.