RIYADH — The Ministry of Tourism has approved updates to regulations governing Hajj season accommodation activities, licensing procedures, and classification standards as part of preparations for the 2027 Hajj season.

The ministry has also approved a schedule of violations applicable to accommodation facilities designated to host pilgrims in Makkah and Madinah.

The updates are aimed at improving the operational readiness of hospitality facilities, raising service quality, and strengthening the regulatory framework governing Hajj season accommodation.

Ministry of Tourism spokesperson Nasr Alansari said the new requirements are designed to ensure that facilities are fully prepared before beginning operations and receiving pilgrims.

The requirements include verifying operational readiness, meeting safety and maintenance standards, ensuring continuity of essential services, and complying with operational requirements to provide pilgrims with a safe and well-organized stay.

Under the updated standards, Hajj season accommodation facilities will be classified into economy and first-class categories, with specific requirements established for each category.

The standards cover several aspects of accommodation operations, including common areas, guest rooms, reception facilities, cleanliness, maintenance, and guest services. They also introduce multiple stages of inspection and oversight before licensing, before operations begin, and throughout the operational period.

The ministry said the measures are intended to strengthen compliance and support continuous improvements in the quality of services provided to pilgrims.

It emphasized that hosting pilgrims represents both a shared and national responsibility rooted in Saudi Arabia’s long-standing history of serving pilgrims. The ministry said the updated standards aim to provide a safe and enriching hospitality experience while reflecting the Kingdom’s continued commitment to serving pilgrims.

The ministry urged those seeking licenses for Hajj 2027 accommodation facilities to begin meeting the requirements early and complete all necessary maintenance and preparation work before submitting their license applications.

Source:Saudi Gazette