Hajj Ministry approves evaluation results of international pilgrim service providers for 2026 Hajj season

According to the Saudi Gazette, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has officially approved the evaluation results for international pilgrim service providers ahead of the 2026 Hajj season. This initiative is part of a broader strategic effort to enhance the quality of services and ensure transparency within the sector, aligning with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 and the Pilgrim Experience Program.

The ministry’s evaluation framework categorizes service providers into three distinct tiers: Tier One for outstanding performance, Tier Two for very good performance, and Tier Three for good performance. The assessment process covers a wide range of entities, including companies contracted by pilgrim affairs offices, those working with affiliated organizers, and providers operating under the direct Hajj model.

These performance evaluations are conducted on an annual basis following the conclusion of each Hajj season. The ministry utilizes two primary metrics to determine these rankings: compliance and adherence, which carry a 60 percent weight, and the overall quality of services provided to pilgrims. By formalizing these standards, the Saudi government aims to maintain high operational benchmarks for the millions of international visitors who travel to Makkah annually for the Hajj pilgrimage.