Saudi Arabia, Jan 9, 2026 (Al Arabiya) – Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has launched the package preference phase for pilgrims under the Direct Hajj Program for the 2026 Hajj season, the ministry said in a statement.

The phase is available through the Nusuk Hajj platform and allows prospective pilgrims from eligible countries to review and compare service packages by level, content and cost, and to select up to five preferred options.

The ministry said the step is intended to help pilgrims make informed choices ahead of the official booking phase, while giving service providers early insight to prepare for the upcoming season.

The platform offers digital tools including package comparisons, indicators showing demand trends, installment-based deposits through a digital wallet, and access to an officially approved list of service providers.

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The ministry urged eligible pilgrims to register or update their information on the platform and ensure the accuracy of personal data and documentation. Pilgrims were also encouraged to add family members planning to perform Hajj under the same application to streamline verification and speed up approvals.

The ministry reiterated that Nusuk Hajj is the sole official and approved platform for Hajj services in countries covered by the Direct Hajj Program and warned against dealing with unauthorized or unaccredited providers.

It said all deposits and bookings must be completed exclusively through the platform to protect pilgrim rights and ensure proper procedures.

The announcement applies only to countries included in the Direct Hajj Program. Hajj arrangements in other countries continue to be handled through approved local channels in line with applicable regulations, according to the statement.

More information on participating countries is available at Nusuk.sa, while registration and profile updates can be completed at Hajj.nusuk.sa.