Somalia’s Ministry of Endowments and Religious Affairs has officially released the registration timetable and operational guidelines for the 1448 AH/2027 Hajj season, urging prospective pilgrims to register early through licensed Hajj operators while warning against dealing with unlicensed travel agencies.

The ministry said the new procedures follow the release of Saudi Arabia’s official Hajj calendar and are intended to ensure that preparations for Somali pilgrims are completed well in advance of the annual pilgrimage.

Under the new guidelines, all Somalis intending to perform Hajj in 2027 must immediately register through Ministry-approved Hajj service providers.

Applicants are required to submit their passports together with a $2,000 advance payment to secure their place and allow travel arrangements to begin.

The ministry also directed all licensed Hajj companies to provide comprehensive services, including transportation, accommodation, meals, medical assistance, and logistical support throughout the pilgrimage.

Operators have been instructed to sign formal contracts with pilgrims clearly outlining the rights and responsibilities of both parties to improve transparency and consumer protection.

Officials further announced that all Hajj arrangements will be managed through a digital registration system, requiring licensed companies to upload pilgrims’ information onto an electronic platform that will streamline processing, coordination, and communication with Saudi authorities.

The ministry warned the public not to conduct business with individuals or companies operating without official authorization, stressing that only licensed Hajj operators approved by the government will be permitted to organize pilgrimage services for Somali citizens.

Authorities said the measure is aimed at reducing fraud and protecting pilgrims from travel scams that have affected previous Hajj seasons.

Officials added that the official cost of the 1448 AH/2027 Hajj packages will be announced once an ongoing assessment of transportation, accommodation, and service costs has been finalized in coordination with Saudi authorities and service providers.

Each year, thousands of Somali Muslims travel to Saudi Arabia to perform Hajj, one of the Five Pillars of Islam and a religious obligation for Muslims who are physically and financially able to undertake the pilgrimage at least once in their lifetime.

Somalia’s Ministry of Endowments and Religious Affairs works closely with the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah and licensed travel operators each year to coordinate pilgrim quotas, visa processing, flights, accommodation, health services, and other logistical arrangements to ensure Somali pilgrims can complete the pilgrimage safely and in accordance with Saudi regulations.