Saudi Ministry of Hajj & Umrah’s New Rules for 1447H (2025/26)

To simplify the changes, we’ve marked the old system with ⛔ and the new rules with ✅.

1. Visa Issuance

⛔ Previously: Only the visa was issued.
✅ Now: Standalone visas will not be issued.

2. Hotel Bookings

⛔ Previously: 1–2 days of hotel booking sufficed.
✅ Now: Full-duration hotel bookings are mandatory.

3. Hotel Registration

⛔ Previously: Unregistered hotels were accepted.
✅ Now: Visas won’t be issued for unregistered hotels.

4. Transport Requirement

⛔ Previously: No transport proof was needed.
✅ Now: Transport arrangements are compulsory for visa approval.

5. Group Travel Mandate

⛔ Previously: Individual travel was allowed.
✅ Now: Solo travel is banned—group travel is mandatory.

6. Unified Hotel & Transport

⛔ Previously: Groups booked flights/transport separately from hotels.
✅ Now: Entire group must stay in the same hotel linked to their transport.

7. Visa Pricing Changes

⛔ Previously: Flat visa rates (1–50 people).
✅ Now: Visa fees vary based on group size and transport quality.

8. Children’s Visa Rules

⛔ Previously: No transport/hotel charges for children.
✅ Now: Children’s visas require transport & hotel bookings.

9. Unified Vouchers

⛔ Previously: Pilgrims could customize Mecca/Medina stay vouchers.
✅ Now: One standardized voucher per group.

10. Confirmed Tickets

⛔ Previously: Visa issued with just a booking ticket.
✅ Now: Confirmed tickets are mandatory for visa issuance.

11. Voucher Amendments

⛔ Previously: Vouchers could be modified pre/post-travel.
✅ Now: No changes allowed after voucher approval.

12. Residency Holders’ Restrictions

⛔ Previously: Saudi residents could stay with Umrah pilgrims in hotels.
✅ Now: Residents are barred from pilgrim hotels.

13. Hotel Compliance

⛔ Previously: Alternate hotels were permitted.
✅ Now: Strictly no deviations from the assigned hotel.

⚠️ Penalties for Non-Compliance

Violations may result in:

• Heavy fines

• Company suspension

• Future visa bans

Conclusion

The Saudi Ministry of Hajj & Umrah’s new regulations for 1447H (2025/26) aim to streamline pilgrimage procedures, enhance pilgrim safety, and ensure better-organized travel experiences. These changes emphasize group travel, verified accommodations, and strict compliance—making it crucial for travelers and agencies to adhere closely to avoid penalties.

For a smooth and hassle-free journey, always book through authorized agents, confirm all arrangements in advance, and stay updated on official guidelines.

Plan wisely, follow the rules, and may your pilgrimage be accepted!