New Delhi, April 15 – In a major relief for Indian private Haj tour operators, the Saudi Ministry of Haj has reopened the Nusuk Portal to allow them to complete documentation for approximately 10,000 pilgrims, following intervention by the Indian government.
The Ministry of Minority Affairs (MoMA) confirmed that the Saudi authorities agreed to this special relaxation, which comes after private Haj operators, known as Combined Haj Group Operators (CHGOs), missed multiple deadlines to finalize essential contracts. These contracts, including arrangements for accommodation, transport, and Mina camps, are mandatory under Saudi regulations.
Background: Missed Deadlines and Risk of Cancellation
This year, over 800 Private Tour Operators were merged into 26 legal entities (CHGOs) as per Saudi Arabia’s updated Haj guidelines. While the Haj quota was allocated well in advance, CHGOs failed to complete formalities in time, leading to fears that around 10,000 pilgrim slots could be cancelled.
The portal had been shut down earlier due to this delay. However, following urgent appeals, including those from former J&K Chief Ministers Dr Farooq Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti, the matter was taken up by the Indian government with the Saudi authorities.
Government Efforts and Growing Haj Quota
Responding to the situation, Mehbooba Mufti had urged the Ministry of External Affairs to intervene immediately. Taking swift action, Indian authorities managed to secure a rare concession from the Saudi Haj Ministry to re-open the Nusuk Portal for CHGOs.
The Ministry of Minority Affairs highlighted that India’s Haj quota has grown significantly—from 1,36,020 in 2014 to 1,75,025 in 2025—thanks to the government’s consistent efforts. Out of this, 1,22,518 pilgrims are managed through the Haj Committee of India, while the remaining over 52,000 slots are allocated to private tour operators.
Next Steps for Private Operators
CHGOs have now been directed by the minority affairs ministry to immediately complete the pending formalities on the Nusuk Portal and ensure that the affected 10,000 pilgrims can proceed with their Haj journey.
This decision brings much-needed relief to thousands of pilgrims and operators who were left in uncertainty due to the earlier portal closure.
