Ministry of Hajj and Umrah: Early Coordination with Hajj Affairs Offices Accelerated Readiness for Hajj Season 1447 AH

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah embodies a proactive operational approach in managing the Hajj season, which effectively begins on the 12th of Dhu al-Hijjah each year, serving as the official launching pad for the subsequent season. This continuous workflow spans approximately nine months in direct coordination with 78 Hajj affairs offices worldwide, enhancing early readiness and boosting planning and execution efficiency to serve the Guests of Allah. 

Preparations for the Hajj season of 1447 AH kicked off on the 12th of Dhu al-Hijjah 1446 AH through early coordination with Hajj affairs offices. This phase included delivering the preliminary arrangements document for the season and launching the completion of regulatory and operational requirements, allowing ample time for early planning and finalizing various arrangements within a clear and organized timeframe. 

All contracts and arrangements for pilgrims are managed through the electronic track platform (E-Track). This platform represents an integrated digital ecosystem for managing various operational and regulatory procedures—ranging from contracting and field services to visa processes. It features over 500 digital services and links more than 80 government and operational entities across the Hajj ecosystem, alongside over 5,000 service providers, ensuring swift execution, elevated efficiency, enhanced transparency, and seamless integration among all stakeholders. 

In a step reflecting proactive preparation, the Hajj Conference and Exhibition in November 2025 witnessed the signing of Hajj affairs arrangement agreements with participating countries. This significantly accelerated progress, enabling Hajj affairs offices to finalize their arrangements early within an integrated operational system working over several months. 

By the first of last Shawwal, these early efforts resulted in completing more than 90% of the visa issuances for overseas pilgrims, alongside finalizing all accommodation contracts in Makkah, Madinah, and the Holy Sites. This outcome underscores the impact of early work and sustained coordination with Hajj affairs offices, confirming the operational system's efficiency in managing seasonal preparations. 

Throughout the season, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah continues its direct coordination with Hajj affairs offices to monitor the delivery of services, resolve operational observations, and strengthen integration with various relevant entities, thereby enabling the Guests of Allah to perform their rituals with ease and peace of mind. 

These efforts fall within the integrated Hajj ecosystem, which receives the support and empowerment of the wise leadership—may Allah protect them—and aligns with the objectives of the Pilgrim Experience Program—one of the Saudi Vision 2030 programs—reflecting the Kingdom's commitment to continuously elevating the pilgrim's experience and the quality of services provided.