Planning to perform Hajj in 2026 (1447 AH)? Saudi Arabia has amplified its regulations to ensure safety, fairness, and organization. Here’s a full breakdown of what U.S. pilgrims must know:
1. Only Official Hajj Visas Allowed
-
Only pilgrims holding an official Hajj visa—issued via licensed agents through Nusuk (Hajj & Umrah platform)—are permitted to enter Mecca or perform Hajj between 1 Dhu al‑Qi’dah and 14 Dhu al‑Hijjah. Violators (even residents) may face fines up to SAR 20,000, immediate deportation, and a 10‑year re-entry ban.
-
Entry on tourist, family, business, or transit visas is strictly prohibited during the pilgrimage period—even if in-country.
2. Expected Hajj Dates – Dhu al‑Hijjah 1447 (2026)
-
The pilgrimage is anticipated to take place from ~May 27, 2026 (evening of 8 Dhu al‑Hijjah) through ~June 1, 2026, subject to moon sighting.
3. Age Requirements
-
Pilgrims must be at least 15 years old to register officially under the international quota. Children younger than this may accompany but their pilgrimage is not counted as obligatory (Fard) and they aren’t arranged by Nusuk.
-
There is no maximum age limit, although those of advanced age should travel with a companion and have proper medical clearance.
4. Mandatory Health & Vaccination Protocols
-
Meningococcal vaccine ACYW‑135 certificate is required for all pilgrims aged 2 and above. Vaccination must be issued between 10 days and up to 3 or 5 years prior depending on vaccine type.
-
Must also present proof of COVID‑19 vaccination, plus polio and yellow fever vaccination if traveling from designated countries. Seasonal flu shot is recommended, especially for the elderly, children under five, pregnant women, or chronically ill.
5. Baggage Limits & Arrival Procedures
-
Pilgrims are limited to 32 kg (70 lb) checked baggage, with maximum size 56×45×25 cm (20×17.7×9.8 in). Excess baggage must be shipped via authorized cargo centers in Jeddah or Makkah.
-
On arrival at Jeddah, pilgrims must hand passports to the Unified Agents Office representative for processing. Lost passports must be immediately reported and a formal report obtained from that office.
6. Registration & Agency Compliance
-
U.S. residents must register exclusively through Nusuk, the official Saudi platform—no alternative route is accepted. Many well-known U.S. travel agencies (e.g. Dar el Salam, Al Hilal, Adam, Dawn Travels) coordinate with Nusuk.
-
First-time pilgrims receive priority in allocation. Returning pilgrims may face longer waiting times.
7. Crackdown on Unauthorized Participation
-
In 2025, Saudi authorities prevented over 269,000 individuals from entering Mecca without valid permits, citing overcrowding and heat-related fatalities among unregistered pilgrims. Unauthorized participants were fined (up to ~$5,000 USD), deported, or banned.
-
Authorities now employ advanced tools—including drones—for crowd monitoring and enforcement.
Quick Summary Table
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Visa | Official Hajj visa via Nusuk only |
| Dates | ~May 27 – June 1, 2026 |
| Min Age | 15 years (required to register officially) |
| Vaccinations | Meningitis ACYW‑135, COVID‑19, polio/yellow fever (if applicable) |
| Baggage Allowance | 32 kg checked; 56×45×25 cm max size |
| Register through | Licensed U.S. agencies in partnership with Nusuk |
| Unauthorized risks | SAR 20,000 fine, ~$5K USD fine, deportation, 10‑year ban |
| First‑time Pilgrims | Given priorit |