In a statement released on Wednesday, the Commission urged interested agencies to complete their applications before the September 15, 2025 deadline.
“NAHCON hereby informs all duly registered travel agencies interested in the 2026 Hajj operations that arrangements for licensing and slot allocation have commenced. Agencies are therefore invited to apply for the grant of licenses and slot allocations,” the statement read in part.
The Commission stressed that only agencies meeting its corporate, regulatory, and financial requirements would be considered. Applicants are expected to be registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission, hold valid International Air Transport Association (IATA) approval, employ qualified staff, and demonstrate a proven record of providing satisfactory Hajj or Umrah services.
Additional conditions include a minimum share capital of ₦30 million, at least four years of satisfactory Umrah licensing history, and no record of criminal conviction in Nigeria or Saudi Arabia. Successful applicants will also be required to pay a licensing fee of ₦1 million, present proposed Hajj packages, secure reputable guarantors, and provide evidence of confirmed flight and accommodation arrangements.
The Commission warned that applications from indebted firms, those with unresolved complaints, or agencies failing to present accommodation for inspection by December 2, 2025, would be disqualified. It also cautioned against unauthorized changes to transportation or lodging plans without pilgrims’ consent, stating that offenders would face sanctions.
Furthermore, NAHCON reiterated Saudi authorities’ stance that there would be no extension of deadlines in the Hajj preparation process. It also reminded stakeholders that the deadline for securing Masha’ir Camp bookings in Saudi Arabia is January 4, 2026.
The Saudi Hajj Ministry had earlier warned of strict penalties for visa violations, with offenders facing fines of 20,000 Riyals (₦8.15 million) and possible imprisonment.
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