Hajj 2026 Registration Begins In Saudi Arabia With New 72-Hour Payment Deadline

Hajj 2026 Bookings Open In Saudi Arabia: Payment Deadlines, Cancellation Rules Explained

Saudi Arabia has officially begun the Hajj booking phase for domestic pilgrims, a key step in preparations for the annual Islamic pilgrimage. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah announced that Saudi citizens and expatriates with valid residency permits can now select and book Hajj packages through the official Nusuk platform.

The move marks the transition from the earlier data registration phase, which started on February 23 (Ramadan 6), to the package selection and payment stage.

What Is Hajj?

Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam and a religious duty that every Muslim who is physically and financially capable must undertake at least once in their lifetime.

The pilgrimage takes place annually during the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah in the holy city of Mecca. Over several days, pilgrims perform rituals that commemorate the devotion and trials of Prophet Ibrahim and his family.

Booking Process Through Nusuk

Domestic pilgrims who previously registered can now browse available packages and complete bookings through the Nusuk mobile application or website. The ministry said the entire process — from package selection to payment — is conducted electronically as part of efforts to streamline Hajj management.

Applicants can review different packages, select their preferred option, generate a booking invoice, and complete payment using SADAD, the Kingdom’s national electronic bill payment service.

Officials say the digital system helps manage capacity more efficiently and ensures fair access to pilgrimage slots.

72-Hour Payment Window

To regulate demand, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has introduced strict payment timelines.

Pilgrims must complete payment within 72 hours of receiving their booking invoice. This rule will remain in effect until Dhul Qada 27 (May 14).

From May 15 onward, the payment window will shrink to just six hours after a booking invoice is issued. Authorities say the shorter timeframe will help ensure that unconfirmed reservations quickly return to the system, allowing other applicants to secure available slots.

If payment is not completed within the specified period, the reservation will be automatically cancelled.

Cancellation And Refund Policy

The ministry also outlined updated cancellation and refund guidelines for domestic pilgrims.

Bookings cancelled before the Hajj permit is issued, and up to Shawwal 30 (April 18), will receive full refunds with no deductions.

Once the official Hajj permit has been issued, refunds may involve deductions depending on how close the cancellation is to the pilgrimage period.

Authorities also confirmed that no refunds will be granted for cancellations submitted from Dhul Hijjah 1 (May 18) onward, when the Nusuk platform will close the booking cycle.

Ministry Advisory For Pilgrims

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has advised applicants to carefully review package details, terms, and conditions before confirming their bookings. Pilgrims are also encouraged to complete payments within the specified deadlines to avoid losing their reservation.