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The government has granted conditional approval to 357 Hajj agencies in the first phase to take part in Hajj operations for 2027, according to the Ministry of Religious Affairs.
A list of the initially eligible agencies was published on Sunday, with authorities warning that failure to register pilgrims without valid reasons could lead to administrative action.
Hajj is expected to be observed on May 15, 2027, subject to the sighting of the moon, while official Hajj packages are likely to be announced later this week.
Under the guidelines, approved agencies must form alliances within a specified timeframe before beginning pilgrim registration. Only agencies that meet the minimum quota set by Saudi authorities—either independently or through such alliances—will be allowed to send pilgrims.
The ministry said all registrations must be completed through the e-Hajj system under approved packages, which will serve as formal contracts between pilgrims and agencies. Each package must clearly outline services in Saudi Arabia, duration of stay, accommodation distance from holy sites, and overall cost.
To qualify, each agency must register at least 44 pilgrims. Agencies failing to meet this requirement must transfer their pilgrims to another agency under a lead operator to ensure participation.
Additionally, agencies are required to appoint one trained Hajj guide for every 44 pilgrims. Guides must be proficient in Arabic, skilled in information technology, and experienced in conducting Hajj. Their passport details and credentials must be submitted through the e-Hajj system.
The ministry also issued a strict warning that no unregistered person will be allowed to travel for Hajj. Any agency found attempting to send unauthorized pilgrims will face legal action, including immediate cancellation of its licence without prior notice.