Saudi Arabia has updated its rules for accommodation facilities serving Hajj pilgrims in Makkah and Madinah.
The Ministry of Tourism approved new regulations for licensing, classification and violations. The changes aim to improve safety, readiness and service quality before the 2027 Hajj season.
According to the Saudi Press Agency, the updated rules will strengthen oversight of facilities that host pilgrims.
New Standards Focus on Safety and Readiness
Ministry spokesperson Nasr Alansari said the new rules will improve the regulatory and operational framework.
He said accommodation facilities must complete preparations before receiving pilgrims.
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The requirements include operational readiness, safety standards and proper maintenance. Facilities must also provide essential services and meet other operating requirements.
As a result, pilgrims will have access to safer and better-organized accommodation.
Hajj Facilities to Receive New Classifications
The updated standards classify Hajj accommodation facilities into economy and first-class categories.
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Each category has specific requirements. These requirements cover rooms, reception areas and common spaces.
They also include standards for cleanliness, maintenance and guest services.
The ministry will inspect facilities at several stages. These checks will take place before licensing and before operations begin.
Officials will also conduct inspections during the Hajj season. This approach will help improve compliance and service quality.
Saudi Arabia Expands Monitoring
The ministry said hosting pilgrims represents a shared national responsibility.
It also described Hajj service as a long-standing Saudi tradition. The new standards aim to provide pilgrims with a safe and positive hospitality experience.
Saudi authorities expanded monitoring during the 2026 Hajj season.
In April, the ministry reported more than 19,000 inspections of hospitality facilities and temporary pilgrim accommodation in Makkah and Madinah.
Officials conducted more than 11,000 inspections in Makkah. They carried out another 5,000 inspections in Madinah.
In addition, teams made about 3,000 visits to check temporary accommodation. These visits focused on compliance and service quality.
More Than 1.7 Million Pilgrims Performed Hajj in 2026
More than 1.7 million pilgrims performed Hajj in 2026, according to the General Authority for Statistics.
The figure included 1,546,655 pilgrims who arrived from outside Saudi Arabia.
Another 160,646 citizens and residents performed Hajj from within the Kingdom.
The large number of pilgrims highlights the need for effective accommodation planning and strict safety standards.
Smart Accommodation Service Launched
Earlier, the ministry introduced a smart accommodation service for pilgrims.
The system helps improve the distribution of pilgrim housing. It includes real-time arrival tracking and occupancy indicators.
It also uses automated verification. The ministry said these features can help reduce waiting times.
Field teams also carried out more than 3,300 awareness visits. These visits promoted licensing rules and quality standards.
Pilgrims can contact the Unified Tourism Center at 930 for inquiries and feedback.
Facilities Urged to Prepare Early for Hajj 2027
The ministry urged businesses seeking Hajj 2027 accommodation licenses to begin preparations early.
Officials advised facilities to complete maintenance and other required preparations. They also urged applicants to submit their license applications on time.
The updated rules are designed to ensure accommodation providers meet required standards before pilgrims arrive.
