MAKKAH (Kashmir English): Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has introduced a new temporary licencing system for pilgrim accommodations in Makkah and Madinah during the 2026 Hajj season, aiming to ease housing shortage and improve service quality for millions of worshippers across the globe.
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah of the Kingdom has announced that the initiative will allow property owners to obtain seasonal licences for hosting pilgrims.
Developed in partnership with the ministries of tourism and municipalities and housing, the plan has been designed to expand capacity during the pilgrimage without compromising safety or standards.
Under the new rules, applicants will have to register through the Nusuk Masar platform, with approvals processed via the Ministry of Tourism’s online portal.
The contracting period will close on 13 Sha’ban 1447 AH (February 1, 2026). Hotels that already hold year-round tourism licences will not be affected by the new rule.
According to the officials, linking licenced facilities to the Nusuk booking system will streamline reservations, prevent overcrowding, and create a safer, more organised experience for pilgrims.
Hajj for Pakistanis
In Pakistan, Hajj is seen as a once-in-a-lifetime spiritual calling with the families save for years to afford the journey.
In 2025, about 189,000 Pakistanis were able to perform Hajj, their largest quota yet, split evenly between the government scheme and private operators. Pakistan is seeking to raise its quota to 255,000 for 2026.
Officials are also considering reviving Hajj travel by sea and extending Saudi Arabia’s “Road to Makkah” immigration clearance service to more airports in Pakistan.
Both steps could cut costs and reduce the strain of long journeys for elderly and first-time pilgrims.
