Saudi Arabia has prepared a complete operational plan for the Grand Mosque of Mecca and the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina for Ramadan 1447 Hijri i.e. the year 2026. The authorities have also implemented this comprehensive plan from February 15, 2026 so that the crowd can be managed in the coming times. This time, those going on Umrah may have to shell out a little more because the prices of packages have increased due to the demand for hotels and other services.
🚨: UAE Moon Sighting: Committee will sit on February 17 to see the moon of Ramadan, know when the fast will start.
What are the new rules and restrictions inside the mosque?
This time there will be a complete ban on live streaming or any kind of broadcasting during Namaz. Except for the cameras installed for security, video recording of the Imam or the worshipers is not allowed so that the privacy of the people is maintained. Cash donation will no longer be accepted for Iftar, all money will have to be given through the official ‘Ehsaan’ platform.
Begging is strictly prohibited in and around the mosque premises. Namaz timings will also be strictly followed, and a mandatory gap of 15 minutes will be maintained between Azaan and Iqama in Isha and Fajr prayers. In the last ten nights, Tahajjud prayers will end much before Fajr so that people can get time for Sehri.
When will Ramadan start and how much does Umrah cost?
According to moon sighting, Ramadan is expected to start from 18th February 1447 Hijri 2026 and Eid will be around 20th March. This time, the premium packages for Umrah have reached around 8,000 AED i.e. around $2,178, which is 25% more than before. Economy packages vary depending on the country, starting from around $1100. Visa fees will be between 100 to 200 dollars.
What new facilities have been introduced for pilgrims?
Special transport service has been started for the elderly and disabled people from transit stations to the gate of the mosque. To help those who do not know Arabic, field teams have been provided with instant translation devices that support five languages. Digital sensors and 3D maps are being used to manage the crowd so that there is not much jostling in the Mataf and Saudi Portico.
