Saudi Gazette report

MADINAH — The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has announced that licenses for accommodations for pilgrims in Makkah and Madinah during the Hajj season of 2026 will be issued through the temporary hostel licensing service. The ministry stated that this service is developed in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism and the Ministry of Municipalities and Housing.

Applicants must use the Nusuk Masar platform to qualify for leasing pilgrim accommodations. Licenses should be obtained through the Ministry of Tourism’s electronic platform, in accordance with the approved requirements, before the contracting period ends on the 13th of Sha'ban 1447 AH (February 1, 2026). This process does not apply to hotels with year-round licenses from the Ministry of Tourism.

The temporary hostel licensing mechanism aims to enhance service quality by issuing seasonal licenses that meet all conditions. It connects licensed facilities to the Nusuk platform for coordinated bookings, improves hospitality capacity during Hajj, and ensures a safe, organized experience through the electronic licensing platform at this link: https://tlg.mt.gov.sa/.