Hajj 2026; Embark on Spiritual Journey with Approved Agents Only: JKHC

Suhail Khan

Srinagar, Dec 26: The Jammu and Kashmir Hajj Committee has issued a stern advisory for pilgrims intending to perform Hajj in 2026, emphasizing that bookings must be made exclusively through the 14 registered Haj Group Organisers (HGOs) approved by the Ministry of Minority Affairs.

This directive comes amid concerns that several prominent but unregistered travel brands in the region—some reportedly blacklisted by the Ministry for up to four years—continue to operate illegally. These operators are charging exorbitant fees and posing significant risks to pilgrims.

A senior official at the Hajj House in Srinagar, speaking to Kashmir Convener, warned prospective pilgrims to exercise utmost caution. “To avoid fraudulent schemes, individuals must verify the operator’s name against the official government list before any transaction,” the official stated.

He further advised that “payments should only be made after confirming the operator’s valid registration to ensure a safe, secure, and hassle-free pilgrimage.”

Meanwhile, the Hajj Committee’s formal advisory, a copy of which is with Kashmir Convener, outlines critical deadlines set by Saudi authorities. According to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, all housing and service contracts for Hajj 2026 must be finalized by February 2026. These contracts are mandatory for securing accommodation, transportation, and essential logistical services in the Holy Cities.

“Given these strict international timelines and the extensive preparatory work required of HGOs and Private Tour Operators (PTOs), pilgrims are strongly urged to confirm their bookings well in advance,” the advisory states.

To ensure all procedural compliance is met, including the finalization of Saudi-side contracts, the Committee has set an internal deadline of January 15, 2026, for pilgrims to complete their bookings with registered operators. Officials state this is vital to “avoid last-minute inconveniences” and ensure the timely completion of all mandatory processes.

The advisory further reads with a clear instruction: “Pilgrims must verify the registration status, quota allocation, and official approval of any HGO or PTO before proceeding with a booking. Engagement with unauthorized operators is strictly discouraged and undertaken at the pilgrim’s own risk.”