To streamline the accommodation process for Hajj 2026, Saudi Arabia has rolled out a seasonal licensing system for pilgrim housing in Makkah and Madinah. The initiative, developed through inter-ministerial collaboration, focuses on enhancing service standards, ensuring compliance, and organizing bookings through official digital platforms.
New licensing framework for Hajj season 2026
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has formally introduced a temporary hostel licensing service for accommodations catering to pilgrims in Makkah and Madinah during the Hajj season of 1447 AH (2026). This seasonal licensing model has been jointly developed with two other government bodies — the Ministry of Tourism and the Ministry of Municipalities and Housing — in a coordinated effort to manage the influx of pilgrims more effectively.Unlike permanent hotel licenses, this initiative targets properties seeking short-term approval specifically for the Hajj period. Existing hotel establishments with year-round licenses issued by the Ministry of Tourism are exempt from this seasonal licensing process.
How the Hajj accommodation licensing process works
To obtain a license under the new system, applicants must complete two steps:
- Register via the Nusuk Masar platform, the centralized system for pilgrim service coordination.
- Apply through the Ministry of Tourism’s electronic platform at https://tlg.mt.gov.sa/, ensuring all requirements are met.
The deadline for securing the necessary license is 13th Sha’ban 1447 AH, corresponding to February 1, 2026. All licenses must be finalized before this contracting period closes. No applications will be accepted beyond this date.
Goals and benefits of the seasonal licensing model for Hajj
The temporary hostel licensing system has been introduced to:
- Improve service quality by enforcing seasonal standards that must be met by all participating accommodations.
- Increase accommodation capacity during the peak Hajj period through regulated, short-term approvals.
- Integrate licensed properties with the Nusuk platform, allowing for centralized and organized booking management.
- Ensure safety and compliance through the use of official electronic verification and registration systems.
By creating a standardized process and tying it to official digital infrastructure, the authorities aim to deliver a smoother, more reliable lodging experience for pilgrims.
Coordination between ministries
This licensing overhaul reflects a high level of coordination between:
- The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, overseeing the spiritual and logistical aspects of the pilgrimage.
- The Ministry of Tourism, responsible for regulating hospitality services.
- The Ministry of Municipalities and Housing, contributing to urban planning and infrastructure readiness.
Together, these entities have designed a system that balances religious, administrative, and tourism-related requirements, making it easier for property owners and service providers to align with national Hajj goals.
