As South African Muslims prepare for next year’s Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages, the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) has reassured citizens that it remains committed to providing consular support while protecting the nation’s reputation in Saudi Arabia.
This comes after the National Assembly unanimously passed a motion last week to safeguard the rights of Hajj pilgrims, following concerns over the South African Hajj and Umrah Council (SAHUC) and allegations of misconduct.
National Assembly Calls for Urgent Intervention
The motion, tabled by an opposition party, highlighted the need for immediate action to address SAHUC’s alleged attempts to monopolise Hajj travel, which could unfairly increase costs for pilgrims. Lawmakers called for:
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DIRCO to safeguard pilgrims’ rights
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The Cultural, Religious and Linguistic Rights Commission (CRL Rights Commission) to investigate misconduct claims at SAHUC
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Greater transparency in Hajj operations
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Implementation of the Nusuk Hajj system
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Measures to prevent monopolies in Hajj travel
DIRCO has acknowledged the National Assembly’s motion and reaffirmed its earlier statements, noting that a Ministerial Committee on Efficient Management of the Annual Hajj and Umrah Pilgrimages submitted a final report to the department on 30 June 2025.
Collaboration With Rights Commissions
DIRCO emphasized that it is actively engaging with the Commission for the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Cultural, Religious and Linguistic Communities to ensure that Hajj operations align with constitutional and community-based principles.
The CRL Rights Commission continues to play a crucial role in guiding religious and cultural communities to organise their affairs independently, while safeguarding their religious rights and freedoms.
Saudi Arabia Introduces New Operational Framework
Looking ahead, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah in Saudi Arabia has announced a new operational framework for South African pilgrims, effective from 2026. Under this system:
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The use of traditional licensed tour operators will be discontinued
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Service contracts will be signed directly with Saudi service providers, who will handle all on-ground logistics
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Coordination will be managed through the Nusuk Masar electronic platform, overseen by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah
DIRCO has stated that this new model aims to improve service delivery and ensure a safer, more efficient pilgrimage experience for South African pilgrims.
Dates for Hajj 2026
Next year’s Hajj is scheduled to begin on the evening of Sunday, 24 May 2026, and will conclude on Friday, 29 May 2026, giving pilgrims ample time to plan and prepare under the new operational framework.