Ghana has formally begun preparations for the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Pilgrims Affairs Office of Ghana (PAOG) and the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The agreement, which officially confirms Ghana’s participation in next year’s pilgrimage, was signed in Jeddah last Sunday by the Chairman of PAOG, Alhaji Abdul-Rauf Tanko Ibrahim, on behalf of the Government of Ghana.
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A statement issued by Alhaji Mohammed Aminu Lamptey Hussein of the Communications Directorate of PAOG said the signing ceremony marked a significant milestone in Ghana’s early preparations for the spiritual journey, which attracts thousands of Ghanaian Muslims annually.
During the engagement, Saudi authorities reviewed Ghana’s performance in previous Hajj operations, highlighting both achievements and operational challenges.
The two sides discussed strategies to enhance the overall experience and welfare of Ghanaian pilgrims while ensuring strict adherence to the sanctity and safety standards of the pilgrimage.
The MoU provides a detailed framework for Ghana’s participation in the 2026 Hajj, covering key operational areas such as pilgrim slot allocations, service contracts, accommodation and transportation arrangements, visa processing, camp bookings, welfare provisions, and health standards.
To improve efficiency and coordination, both parties agreed that all logistical and administrative activities — including transport and accommodation bookings — would be managed through the Musuk Masar digital platform.
The agreement also establishes specific timelines to ensure operational readiness well ahead of the pilgrimage.
The signing effectively secures Ghana’s place in the 2026 Hajj calendar, subject to any unforeseen developments, and commits both parties to maintaining high standards in service delivery, health compliance, and timely coordination.
Following the signing, Alhaji Abdul-Rauf Tanko Ibrahim extended warm greetings to all Ghanaian Muslims and stakeholders in the Hajj process.
He urged prospective pilgrims to begin paying the approved Hajj fare of GH₵60,000 early to facilitate smooth planning and timely logistical arrangements.
He assured the Muslim community that the Pilgrims Affairs Office of Ghana remains committed to ensuring a safe, well-organised, and spiritually fulfilling Hajj experience in 2026.
