Ministry of Hajj and Umrah Unveils Packages and Guidelines for Hajj 2024: Registration Now Open!

RIYADH - The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has officially opened registration for Hajj and released details about the packages available for the current year's Hajj season. Domestic pilgrims, including citizens and regular residents of Saudi Arabia, can now register through the "Nusk" application and the Ministry's website.

Registration will be open until 12/7/1445 or until all seats are filled. However, the issuance of permits in the "Absher" system will begin on the 15th of the next month, Shawwal.

To be eligible for Hajj, individuals must hold a national ID or valid residence permit, as visit or work visa holders are not allowed to perform Hajj. The age threshold for performing Hajj starts at 15, and there is no upper limit. Women can perform Hajj without a mahram, as it is not obligatory for all campaigns. Mandatory immunizations for pilgrims include Neisseria meningitis and seasonal influenza.

The Ministry revealed four packages for domestic pilgrims, each offering different levels of service and accommodation. The first package is priced at 10,366.10 riyals and provides a high-end service in specially developed camps. The second package, priced at 8,092.55 riyals, offers accommodation in hospitality camps in Mina. The third package, priced at 13,265.25 riyals, grants access to the six towers in Mina, which are conveniently located near the Jamarat Bridge. The fourth package, priced at 4,099.75 riyals, provides a more economical option. All prices include value-added tax but do not cover transportation costs to and from Mecca.

Payment for the packages can be made in installments over three payments. The Ministry emphasizes that payment is only accepted electronically through the "Sadad" system. Pilgrims can choose either to pay the full amount within 72 hours after confirming the reservation or opt for partial payment. In the case of partial payment, the first payment (20% of the total amount) must be made within 72 hours after confirming the reservation, followed by a second payment (40% of the total amount) before the end of the 20th of the next Ramadan, and a final payment (40% of the total amount) before the end of the 20th of Shawwal.

Priority in registration will be given to those who have not performed Hajj before, with exceptions for the ihram. It is mandatory to register companions who wish to perform Hajj in the same facility and package, with a maximum of 14 companions. Health conditions should be good, and individuals should not suffer from acute chronic or infectious diseases that may jeopardize their safety or the safety of others. Registration changes can only be made by the pilgrim and additional companions cannot be registered without canceling the previous reservation and making a new one.

Pilgrims must print their Hajj permits from the "Absher" platform after it is issued by the Ministry of Interior. The Ministry also urges pilgrims to adhere to the chosen package, departure schedule, and meeting points, as failure to comply may result in additional costs or the cancellation of transportation services.

Transportation costs to and from Mecca are included in the price of the first and second packages, while transportation costs within the Holy Sites (Mina - Arafat - Muzdalifah) will vary depending on the location of the camp. Meals will be provided based on the chosen package, including dry meals at meeting points in Mecca, daily meals in Mina, a buffet at Arafat, and dry meals in Muzdalifah.

The Ministry clarifies that the current registration process does not allow for the purchase of gifts and sacrifices, but a separate section for sacrifices will be announced later if the feature becomes available. The Ministry also provides a cancellation policy, with full refunds available for cancellations made before payment. Refunds after printing the permit will be subject to deductions based on the date of cancellation.

With the opening of registration, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah is taking steps to ensure a smooth and organized Hajj season for all pilgrims, emphasizing safety, convenience, and adherence to the regulations and guidelines set forth by the Kingdom.