Somali Minister Inspects Hajj Services Amid New Regulations BODY: Mogadishu, Somalia – The Minister of Endowment and Religious Affairs, Sheikh Mukhtar Robow Ali, embarked on a visit to hotels in Madinah, Saudi Arabia, to personally assess the services provided to Somali pilgrims during the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage. This comes as the Somali government implements new operational and financial rules to ensure a dignified and well-organized experience for its citizens.
The Hajj, one of the Five Pillars of Islam, is mandatory for all Muslims who are physically and financially able to perform it.
The Somali government coordinates the logistics of the Hajj for its citizens, encompassing transportation, lodging, and documentation processes. This year, the journey began on May 1, 2026, with the first batch of 432 pilgrims departing from Mogadishu and Hargeisa, marking the official start of the country’s most complex annual international logistical undertaking. During his visit, Sheikh Ali received briefings from officials at the Somali Hajj Affairs Office in Madinah and engaged with pilgrims to gather firsthand feedback on the services being offered.
50, a measure aimed at ensuring transparency and fair pricing for Somali pilgrims.
In addition to the Minister’s oversight, the Somali Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Mohamed Amin Sheikh Osman, also conducted an official inspection of the Somali Hajj Affairs Office in Medina.
The aim was to evaluate the efficiency and organization of support services for Somali pilgrims currently in Medina.
Ambassador Osman’s visit reflects the government’s dedication to the well-being of its citizens during the Hajj pilgrimage.
The Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs has also formalized the operational framework and financial regulations for the upcoming Hajj pilgrimage season, opening registration for Somali pilgrims. These measures are part of efforts to guarantee a dignified, secure, and fully compliant pilgrimage for all citizens, fulfilling the Ministry’s national duty in coordination with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The Somali government’s proactive approach to the Hajj pilgrimage reflects its commitment to ensuring a safe and successful pilgrimage for its citizens. With the introduction of new operational and financial rules, and with high-level oversight by government officials, the Somali Hajj Affairs Office is poised to provide an exceptional experience for Somali pilgrims during the 2026 Hajj season.
As the pilgrimage progresses, the government’s focus on service quality and financial transparency will be crucial in maintaining the dignity and respect of the Hajj experience for Somali pilgrims.
The Minister of Endowment and Religious Affairs’ visit to Madinah is a testament to the government’s dedication to ensuring that the Hajj remains a fulfilling and rewarding journey for all who undertake it.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: sonna.so
Source: Khadarow
