≡-Urgent Travel Update For South African Pilgrims As Saudi Arabia Implements Major Hajj Changes For 2026 – Viral of Today

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August 28, 2025Saudi Arabia has introduced significant new regulations for the 2026 Hajj season, marking a major shift in the pilgrimage process for South African Muslims. These changes, which include new quotas, mandatory use of the Nusuk Masar platform for payments, and restrictions on service providers, are designed to streamline and modernize the Hajj experience. While these measures aim to ensure a more organized pilgrimage, they have raised concerns within the South African Hajj community, particularly regarding the impact on smaller travel operators and the centralization of control by the South African Hajj and Umrah Council (SAHUC). As a result, pilgrims are urged to stay updated on the latest announcements to navigate these changes effectively.As South African Muslims prepare for the sacred journey of Hajj in 2026, the landscape of Hajj operations is evolving due to fresh directives from Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah (MOHU). These new guidelines, along with changes to the role of the South African Hajj and Umrah Council (SAHUC), have sparked a mix of concerns and discussions within the community. Here’s a closer look at the key updates for Hajj 2026 and their potential implications for pilgrims and operators.New Rules for Hajj PilgrimsReports indicate that the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has introduced a new set of regulations for the upcoming Hajj season. These changes aim to streamline the pilgrimage process and enhance the experience for both pilgrims and operators. Here are the most notable new rules:1. Hajj Quota AnnouncementSAHUC is expected to announce the official quota for South African pilgrims on 15 Muharram 1447 AH via the Nusuk Masar platform. For 2026, South Africa’s allotment stands at 2,500 pilgrims. This announcement is crucial for those planning to embark on the journey, as it will determine the number of pilgrims allowed from the country.2. Mandatory Use of Nusuk MasarA significant change in the Hajj process is the exclusive use of the Nusuk Masar platform for all financial transactions related to the pilgrimage. This means that all payments, including deposits, advances, and contractual payments, must be processed through this platform. Moreover, SAHUC is responsible for ensuring that the necessary bank guarantees and complete contract payments are deposited into their designated Nusuk Masar wallets before finalizing any agreements. This centralisation of financial transactions is seen as an attempt to streamline the process but has raised some concerns regarding its accessibility for all pilgrims.3. Limited Service ProvidersThe new regulations also limit the number of service providers that can be contracted for Hajj services. Only two service providers will be allowed, and one of these must be the Saudi-based service provider, formerly known as the Muassasah. This service provider will be responsible for handling accommodations and catering arrangements through the Nusuk Masar platform. While this move is intended to centralize the operations, some in the industry fear that it may limit competition and affect the quality and affordability of services.4. Flight Arrangements and SchedulingPilgrims must travel with approved air carriers, and the flight quota will be divided equally between South African and Saudi airlines. Additionally, flight schedules must be confirmed before securing accommodations in Makkah and Madinah. This requirement ensures a more coordinated travel experience but may also create logistical challenges for both pilgrims and operators.Industry Concerns: Centralisation and Its ImpactWhile SAHUC defends its actions by stating that it is merely following the new directives from MOHU, concerns about the impact of these changes are growing. The Sunni Jamiatul Ulama (SJU), one of the original founders of SAHUC, has voiced concerns, arguing that SAHUC’s new strategy positions it as the exclusive Hajj operator. The SJU argues that this centralisation could create a monopoly, limiting the freedom of other operators and consolidating control over the Hajj process, both in terms of regulatory functions and operational control.SAHUC, on the other hand, has reiterated that it is not seeking to profit from these changes nor is it trying to inflate Hajj prices. The organization has stressed that its primary role is to enforce the MOHU guidelines and ensure a smooth and transparent process for pilgrims.Impact on Hajj Travel OperatorsThe centralisation of Hajj operations has raised alarms among many Hajj travel operators in South Africa. Industry bodies such as the Democratic Alliance (DA) and the SJU have warned that SAHUC’s monopolistic approach could endanger the livelihoods of hundreds of smaller operators. They argue that this may disrupt the business continuity of established agencies that have served the South African Muslim community for years.In response, SAHUC insists that it is not excluding any operators. Instead, SAHUC views its role as providing a platform for registration, handling digital payments, and offering orientation services for pilgrims. SAHUC has opened the floor for proposals for Hajj 2026, with three reputable operators already submitting their responses to the invitation. These proposals are under review, and SAHUC has emphasized that it has not rejected any submissions.If no agreements are reached, SAHUC has indicated that it will step in to facilitate the pilgrimage directly. While this remains a possibility, it has not yet materialized as a concrete plan.What Should South African Pilgrims Expect?For now, South African pilgrims are advised to stay informed by following official announcements from SAHUC. These updates will include details about the quota, service providers, flight schedules, and any further changes to the regulations. Pilgrims should be aware of the new payment process through Nusuk Masar and ensure that they are prepared to comply with the updated rules.As the Hajj season approaches, it is clear that the pilgrimage landscape is undergoing significant changes. While the centralisation of operations and the implementation of new guidelines are intended to streamline the process, they have sparked debates about their impact on competition and the ability of smaller operators to remain viable. For South African Muslims planning their pilgrimage in 2026, staying updated on these developments will be key to a smooth and successful Hajj experience.

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