The registration for housing permits during the upcoming Hajj season in Medina, Saudi Arabia, has officially begun. The committee in charge of pilgrims' housing in the holy city has opened applications for permits as part of early preparations for the annual Islamic Hajj pilgrimage. With nearly 2 million pilgrims performing Hajj last month, marking a return to pre-pandemic levels, it's important to start planning for the upcoming season.

To obtain housing permits, prospective pilgrims are urged to check with the pilgrims' housing committee in Medina for the necessary requirements. The registration period will run until the end of Rajab, the eighth month in the Islamic lunar calendar.

In recent announcements, Saudi Arabia has disclosed new rules for the upcoming Hajj season, emphasizing the need for early preparations. The allocation of specific places at the Saudi holy sites will not be based on countries but on finalized contracts. Each country will be responsible for preparing and delivering high-quality services to the pilgrims, with priority given to those who conclude contracts early.

The issuance of Hajj visas will begin on March 1 and end on the 20th of Shawwal, corresponding to April 29 in the Islamic calendar. The arrival of Hajj pilgrims in Saudi Arabia is scheduled to start on the first of Dhul Qaidah, corresponding to May 9.

This new mechanism aims to facilitate preparations for the obligatory Islamic duty of Hajj. With approximately 1.8 million pilgrims attending this year's Hajj, it highlights the significance and importance of proper planning and organization.