2027 Hajj: Saudi Arabia Urges Nigerian Operators to Complete Preparations
By Auwal Umar
The Saudi Arabian Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has called on Nigerian Hajj and Umrah tour operators to conclude all outstanding preparations ahead of the opening of camps for the 2027 Hajj pilgrimage.
In a preparatory notice issued to Nigerian operators, the Saudi ministry urged them to ensure that their profiles are fully activated and that all required information has been correctly supplied before the camp-selection exercise begins.
The ministry also advised operators to complete the necessary due diligence processes and obtain all required internal approvals ahead of the commencement of the exercise.
According to the notice, operators are expected to have the required funds available and transferred in accordance with established procedures. It further urged designated Hajj representatives to be ready to participate in the camp-selection process once the exercise officially opens.
The Saudi authorities said the camp-selection exercise is expected to begin in the coming days, although the exact date is still subject to final confirmation and operational readiness.
The ministry therefore encouraged operators to resolve all outstanding requirements promptly to avoid administrative challenges or delays when camp selection begins.
It added that the communication forms part of its regular preparatory reminders to operators, stressing that any official announcement on the opening date and schedule would be communicated through the appropriate channels.
The development is expected to enable Nigerian Hajj operators to make timely arrangements for the forthcoming pilgrimage and facilitate a smoother camp-selection process.
Meanwhile, some Nigerian Hajj tour operators who spoke with Hajj Gazette News and Current Affairs have expressed concern over what they described as delays in opening the portal for camp selection and slot allocation ahead of the 2027 Hajj exercise.
The operators attributed the delay to the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), saying it was affecting their preparations for the pilgrimage.
They particularly expressed concern over their inability to select camps, secure their allocated slots and commence the uploading of pilgrims’ documents for the 2027 Hajj.
The concerns emerged against the backdrop of the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah’s directive urging Nigerian operators to complete their preparations, including profile activation, due diligence and financial requirements.
Responding to the concerns through Ishaq Ja’e, Head of the Nusuk-Masar Team for Hajj 2027, NAHCON said the deadline for tent and camp confirmation had been extended to 15 Rabi’ al-Thani 1448 AH, equivalent to September 26, 2026.
The Commission said the extension provides additional time for the necessary processes and arrangements to be completed.
NAHCON also said it is holding a series of meetings with the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah to address issues raised by Nigerian Hajj tour operators and facilitate their effective participation in preparations for the 2027 pilgrimage.
The Commission assured operators that it remains committed to addressing their concerns and ensuring that they have the necessary opportunity to participate in the Hajj arrangements.
It added that further information would be communicated to operators as discussions and preparations for the 2027 Hajj continue.
