The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has announced a new framework for the licensing of accommodation facilities in Makkah and Madinah for the upcoming Hajj season 1447 AH. Effective from Tuesday, 8 Rabi’ al-Thani 1447 AH (September 30, 2025), all licenses will now be issued exclusively by the Ministry of Tourism, not the Hajj Ministry.
Under the new rules, hotels, guesthouses, and apartments wishing to host pilgrims must apply through the “Nusuk Masar” platform, the official online gateway for approvals. The platform is designed to digitise, centralise, and streamline the licensing process, ensuring accommodation meets required hospitality and safety standards.
Why the Change Matters
The Saudi authorities say the shift is aimed at enhancing transparency and improving service quality for millions of pilgrims. By consolidating approvals under the Ministry of Tourism, the government intends to reduce duplication, tighten regulation, and ensure that only facilities meeting approved standards are leased out during Hajj.
For pilgrims, this could mean better regulated accommodation options, with clearer guarantees of safety, hygiene, and quality. For operators — including Nigerian Hajj tour companies — it means a new digital process they must adapt to if they want access to the Saudi accommodation market.
Implications for Nigerian Pilgrims
Every year, Nigeria sends one of the largest contingents of Hajj pilgrims globally. The new licensing procedures will directly affect:
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NAHCON (National Hajj Commission of Nigeria) and licensed tour operators, who will now have to work strictly through properties registered on Nusuk Masar.
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Pilgrims, who may see increased costs if the pool of eligible accommodation is smaller than in previous years, or enjoy more reliable standards if the system curbs poorly managed facilities.
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Travel agents, who will need to adjust their logistics and booking strategies quickly to remain compliant with Saudi requirements.
For Nigerian pilgrims already budgeting for Hajj 2026, these changes may alter package pricing, payment timelines, and choice of hotels in Makkah and Madinah.
A Step Toward Vision 2030
The update reflects Saudi Arabia’s broader Vision 2030 reforms, which aim to modernise the Hajj and Umrah experience, boost digital adoption, and promote tourism as a central economic driver.
By placing the responsibility with the Ministry of Tourism, Saudi Arabia signals that pilgrim accommodation is not just a religious service but part of its national tourism infrastructure. This may also attract greater investment into hospitality services around the holy cities.
Next Steps for Operators
The Ministry has urged all providers to immediately register their facilities through the Nusuk Masar platform to avoid exclusion from the 1447 AH Hajj season.
For Nigerian travel operators and NAHCON, early compliance will be crucial to secure prime locations and competitive prices for pilgrims.
Fact Box: Hajj 1447 AH Accommodation Licensing
Key Date
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New rules take effect 8 Rabi’ al-Thani 1447 AH (September 30, 2025).
Responsible Authority
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Licenses will now be issued by the Saudi Ministry of Tourism.
Platform for Approvals
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All applications must go through the Nusuk Masar platform.
Impact on Nigerian Pilgrims
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NAHCON and tour operators must book only registered properties.
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Package costs and hotel options may shift under stricter licensing.
Big Picture
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Part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 reforms to digitise and modernise Hajj services.