Hajj 2026: Ministry directs private operators to deposit full pilgrims’ costs by Dec 31

The Ministry of Religious Affairs has issued strict directives to private Hajj operators, instructing them to deposit 100 per cent of pilgrims’ approved Hajj package costs into designated Saudi e-wallet accounts under the Hajj Policy 2026.

According to an official notification, all private operators must complete the payment process by December 31, while the deadline for booking Mina land and plot services has been set for December 21.

Hajj authorities warned that failure to meet these deadlines could disrupt essential service arrangements for pilgrims, particularly accommodation and logistics in Mina.

The notification clearly states that in the event of non-payment or delays, full responsibility for any inconvenience or loss suffered by pilgrims will rest solely with the concerned private Hajj operator.

The ministry also cautioned that strict punitive action will be taken against operators who fail to comply with the payment schedule.

Possible penalties include cancellation of Hajj licences and a permanent ban from future Hajj operations.

Officials said the instructions have been formally communicated to all private Hajj operators, stressing that compliance is mandatory to protect pilgrims’ interests and ensure the smooth and transparent management of Hajj arrangements for 2026.