Hajj 2026: Saudi Arabia launches seasonal licensing system for pilgrim accommodations

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has announced that accommodation licenses for pilgrims in Makkah and Madinah during the 2026 Hajj season will be granted through the temporary hostel licensing service. The initiative is being implemented in cooperation with the Ministry of Tourism and the Ministry of Municipalities and Housing.

Applicants seeking to lease properties for pilgrims must apply through the Nusuk Masar platform and secure their licenses via the Ministry of Tourism’s electronic system. Licenses must be obtained before the contracting deadline of 13 Sha'ban 1447 AH, corresponding to February 1, 2026. The ministry clarified that this requirement does not apply to hotels already holding year-round licenses from the Ministry of Tourism.

The seasonal licensing system has been introduced to improve service standards and increase the availability of accommodations during Hajj. Licensed facilities will be linked to the Nusuk platform to streamline bookings and coordinate capacity. According to the ministry, the mechanism aims to enhance hospitality quality, expand housing availability and ensure that pilgrims experience a safe and well-organized stay.

Applications and full details of the service can be accessed through the electronic licensing platform at https://tlg.mt.gov.sa/