In a bid to ensure smooth operations and hitch-free 2027 Hajj exercise, the Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has begun preparatory meetings with Hajj affairs offices from more than 75 countries, including Nigeria, ahead of the Hajj season.

The meetings, according to the ministry, were part of early planning efforts to enhance coordination and readiness, as well as facilitate the journey of pilgrims in next year’s spiritual exercise.

The ministry further informed that the meetings addressed preparations and reviewed the operational plans of Hajj affairs offices.

They also covered key instructions and regulations governing Hajj operations, while discussing the offices’ requirements and responding to their inquiries to help complete arrangements according to approved timelines.

“The meetings are part of early preparations for Hajj 1448 AH, in line with the leadership’s directives to mobilise all available resources to serve pilgrims and facilitate their journey.

“The preparations also support the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030 and the Pilgrim Experience Program by strengthening coordination with Hajj affairs offices and relevant authorities, raising readiness levels, and improving service quality.

“These efforts aimed to enable Hajj pilgrims to perform their rituals with ease and peace of mind while enriching their spiritual experience,” the ministry stated.

The ministry had on May 29, while declaring the 2026 Hajj close, announced its commencement of preparations for next year’s edition of the annual pilgrimage and released timetable and calendar for the 2027 Hajj season, setting September 26, as deadline for final registration of pilgrims by participating countries.

The Saudi Hajj authorities insisted that all contracting and arrangements for tents at the Masha’ir (holy sites of Muna, Muzdalifah and Arafat), transport and catering services for pilgrims are to be conducted through the Nusuk Platform.

As part of the timelines for the 2027 Hajj, the Saudi authorities set December 24, as final deadline for transferring and clearing Saudi-side service expenses, while issuance of visa begins on January 28, 2027.

The first set of pilgrims will arrive in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for next year’s Hajj begining from April 8.

Depending on moon-sighting, the five-day Hajj will commence on May 14, 2027 with pilgrims from across the world leaving Makkah to converge on Muna, also called Tent City, while May 15 will be Arafat Day. (Nigerian Tribune)