By Urban Shihemi, November 8, 2025

The Kenya Hajj Mission, operating under the Supreme Council of Kenya Muslims (SUPKEM), has signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, paving the way for 4,500 Kenyan pilgrims to perform the Hajj in 2026 (1447 AH).

The MOU was signed during a high-level delegation visit to Riyadh, where representatives from SUPKEM engaged in productive discussions with Saudi officials to streamline pilgrimage logistics and enhance bilateral cooperation. 

According to SUPKEM, the new arrangement will provide a structured framework for the allocation of Hajj quotas, coordination of travel logistics, and enhancement of services offered to pilgrims throughout their spiritual journey.

“This agreement signifies our commitment to enhancing the Hajj experience for our pilgrims and strengthening the ties between Kenya and Saudi Arabia in matters of faith. The opportunity for thousands of Kenyans to perform Hajj is a profound chance for spiritual rejuvenation and unity,” said SUPKEM Chairman, Al-Hajj Hassan Ole Naado on his X account.

The agreement comes at a time when Kenya has been making significant efforts to streamline the Hajj management system, including pre-departure training programs.

Under the new MoU, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah will work closely with the Kenya Hajj Mission to facilitate visa processing, accommodation, transportation within the Kingdom, and coordination with approved service providers. The Kenya Hajj Mission, on its part, will be responsible for selecting qualified Hajj operators, ensuring pilgrims receive proper orientation, and maintaining transparent allocation of slots.

“As we prepare for this occasion, our focus will be on ensuring all logistical arrangements are in place to support our pilgrims, from pre-departure preparations to their stay in Saudi Arabia,” said Ole Naado.

The signing of the MoU also signals the start of early preparations for the 2026 pilgrimage season, with SUPKEM expected to open registration and verification processes for intending pilgrims.

The agreement comes just days after the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah officially announced the opening of registration for Hajj 1447 AH (2026) for Muslims residing in countries with minority Muslim populations. 

The registration process will begin on 15 Rabi’ Al-Thani 1447 AH, corresponding to October 7, 2025, and will be conducted exclusively through the official Nusuk Hajj Platform at hajj.nusuk.sa. 

According to the Ministry, this move aims to simplify access and enhance transparency in the pilgrimage registration process by allowing eligible pilgrims to apply directly without intermediaries or external agents.

 The digital platform offers an integrated and secure system where applicants can easily register, select suitable Hajj packages, and make payments under the full supervision of the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. 

The introduction of the Nusuk Hajj platform is part of Saudi Arabia’s broader digital transformation initiative, which seeks to improve services for pilgrims and ensure a smooth, accessible, and fraud-free experience for Muslims around the world. 

Hajj 2026 is expected around May 25-30, 2026, corresponding to the 8th to 13th of Dhul-Hijjah 1447.