Saudi Arabia Warns Pilgrims Against Illegal Hajj Entry in 2026

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has cautioned Nigerian intending pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj.

It stated that anyone caught performing the pilgrimage without a valid Hajj visa will face a fine of SR20,000 (about ₦8.15 million) and possible imprisonment.

The warning was issued during a virtual meeting between the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) and the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah to review preparations for next year’s pilgrimage. The session was chaired by Dr. Rania Adham of the Saudi ministry.

Strict Deadlines for 2026 Hajj

According to NAHCON, Saudi authorities emphasized strict adherence to deadlines, warning that none would be extended. Key timelines include:

• November 2025 – Signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
• 4 January 2026 – Last date for camp booking payments and service contract confirmations.
• 1 February 2026 – Deadline for uploading transport and accommodation contracts on the Nusuk Masar portal.
• 1 Shawwal 1447 AH – Final date for visa issuance.

Saudi authorities also mandated that all Hadaya (sacrificial rites) payments and accommodation bookings be processed exclusively through the Nusuk Masar platform.

Nigeria Retains 95,000 Hajj Slots

The Saudis expressed concern over repeated delays in Nigeria’s past Hajj arrangements, warning that such lapses could negatively affect the welfare and overall experience of pilgrims.

Meanwhile, NAHCON announced that Nigeria has retained its 95,000-slot allocation for the 2026 Hajj, with the distribution to state pilgrims’ boards remaining the same as in 2025.

Provisional Hajj Fare for 2026

Earlier, NAHCON Chairman Professor Abdullahi Saleh Usman disclosed a provisional fare of ₦8.5 million for intending pilgrims.

“The NAHCON Chairman, after deliberations, announced a tentative deposit of ₦8.5 million as the provisional fare for the 2026 Hajj as agreed collectively, pending final negotiations on all service contracts,”

The Commission said in a statement signed by Fatima Sanda Usara, Assistant Director of Information and Publication.

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