MUSCAT : The meeting reviewed preparations for the upcoming Hajj season 1447 AH, and evaluated key observations and outcomes from the previous season.

The meeting focused on the latest updates, initiatives, and procedural mechanisms aimed at ensuring the smooth and successful organisation of this year’s pilgrimage. Discussions covered key operational changes and emphasized the importance of early planning.

Speaking at the session, His Excellency Ahmed bin Saleh Al Rashidi, Undersecretary of the Ministry, stressed that Hajj and Umrah companies are strategic partners in the success of the Hajj season. He highlighted the importance of integration and coordination between these companies, the Ministry, and relevant authorities in both Oman and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

His Excellency also reviewed service enhancements made during the 1446 AH season, noting a high general satisfaction rate of 96.9 percent a significant improvement over the 1445 AH season. He praised the collective efforts that contributed to this achievement, including the recognition received by the Omani Hajj Mission, which was awarded the Commitment to Health Capacity Award at the international level.

The meeting included an overview of the timeline and general plan for the 1447 AH season, with His Excellency emphasising the need for early coordination to deliver high-quality services to Omani pilgrims.

As part of its efforts to improve the Hajj experience, the Ministry launched the Hajj Lab initiative in collaboration with the Takatuf Foundation. The initiative is designed to analyse data from previous Hajj seasons, host workshops to address operational challenges, and prepare a comprehensive report outlining opportunities for improvement, recommendations, and a roadmap of priorities. The goal is to develop more effective mechanisms for Hajj planning and improve the quality of services delivered to pilgrims.

The Ministry also announced several key updates for the 1447 AH Hajj season, including the organisation of land-based pilgrim arrivals and transportation to the holy sites via licensed Saudi transport companies, as well as full integration of Oman’s Hajj quota under the management of the Omani Hajj Affairs Office. This eliminates the need to register organisers through Saudi Arabia’s ‘Nusuk Masar’ e-track portal.
Additionally, the Ministry confirmed that registration for the Hajj pilgrimage for the 1447 AH season will open on September 23, through the Ministry’s official electronic registration system.

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