Complete Pilgrim Housing Permit Guide 2025: Responsible Authorities, Requirements, Fees, and Financial Returns

Introduction: The Honor of Serving Allah's Guests

Serving pilgrims and Umrah performers has been a great honor that the people of Makkah and Madinah have competed for since the dawn of Islam. Allah says: "Have you made the providing of water for the pilgrim and the maintenance of Al-Masjid Al-Haram equal to one who believes in Allah and the Last Day?" Today, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia allows its citizens to participate in this honor by renting their homes to Allah's guests, through an organized and licensed system that ensures the safety and comfort of pilgrims.

In this comprehensive guide, we will take you on a detailed journey about everything you need to know about pilgrim housing permits: Who is the responsible authority? What are the required conditions? How much are the fees? And is this investment really profitable? All this and more you will find in the following lines.

First: What is a Pilgrim Housing Permit?

A pilgrim housing permit is an official license issued by the Pilgrim Housing Committee in the Holy Capital, authorizing the property owner to rent their building or apartment to host pilgrims during the Hajj season. This permit ensures that the building meets all safety requirements and is qualified to receive Allah's guests.

Without this permit, no property owner has the right to rent their residence to pilgrims, and they expose themselves to legal accountability and financial penalties. The permit is not just a routine procedure, but a guarantee for pilgrim safety and protection of the rights of both owner and tenant.

Objectives of the Housing Permit System

The pilgrim housing permit system aims to achieve several important goals: Organizing the pilgrim housing rental market and preventing randomness. Ensuring safety requirements are met in all buildings. Protecting pilgrims from exploitation and fraud. Providing an accurate database of housing capacity. Enabling regulatory authorities to monitor service quality.

Second: Authorities Responsible for Issuing the Permit

Issuing a pilgrim housing permit is a collaborative process between several government agencies, each with a specific role:

Pilgrim Housing Committee in the Holy Capital

This is the main authority responsible for issuing permits in Makkah. The committee follows the Holy Capital Municipality and includes representatives from several government agencies. Its tasks include: Receiving permit applications. Coordinating with engineering offices. Issuing permits after verifying requirements. Field follow-up during Hajj season. Dealing with violations.

Holy Capital Municipality

Oversees the Pilgrim Housing Committee and approves qualified engineering offices for building inspection. It also sets construction regulations and requirements.

Civil Defense

Responsible for verifying safety and fire-fighting requirements in buildings. Civil Defense approval is essential for permit issuance. Civil Defense teams conduct inspection tours before and during Hajj season.

Ministry of Hajj and Umrah

Oversees the complete system of Hajj services and sets general policies for pilgrim housing. It also manages the electronic pathway that links licensed housing to Hajj missions.

Approved Engineering Offices

These are engineering consulting offices approved by the Holy Capital Municipality and Civil Defense. They conduct field inspections on buildings and verify construction and safety requirements, then grant a certificate that enables the owner to obtain the permit.

In Madinah

The Pilgrim Housing Committee at the Madinah Region Emirate handles the same tasks, in coordination with the Madinah Development Authority and the Region Municipality. A unified office for issuing pilgrim and visitor housing permits has been launched, completing transactions within only 48 hours.

Third: Steps to Obtain a Pilgrim Housing Permit

The permit application process is organized and clear. Here are the detailed steps:

Step One: Verify Eligibility

Before starting, make sure your property is eligible for the permit. Basic conditions: The building must be residential and licensed. It must be located in areas permitted for pilgrim housing. Property ownership must be established and documented. The building must not violate municipal regulations.

Step Two: Visit the Engineering Office

Go to one of the engineering consulting offices approved by the Holy Capital Municipality. You can get a list of approved offices from the Municipality's website or the Pilgrim Housing Committee headquarters. Submit to the office: Copy of property deed. Copy of national ID. Building permit. Building plan.

Step Three: Field Inspection

The engineering office will schedule a visit to inspect the building on-site. During the visit, the engineer verifies: Structural safety of the building. Availability of safety requirements. Quality of equipment and furnishing. Ventilation and lighting. Sanitation and cleanliness. Emergency exits.

Step Four: Obtain the Engineering Office Certificate

If the building meets all requirements, the engineering office will grant you a certificate confirming this. This certificate is necessary to proceed to the next step.

Step Five: Apply to the Pilgrim Housing Committee

After obtaining the engineering office certificate, the application is submitted electronically to the Pilgrim Housing Committee. The committee verifies the information and checks the data accuracy.

Step Six: Pay Fees

After preliminary approval, permit fees are paid through approved channels.

Step Seven: Receive the Permit

After completing all procedures and paying fees, the permit is issued electronically and can be printed. The permit contains: Owner's name and ID number. Building address and location. Number of licensed rooms. Building capacity. Permit validity.

Fourth: Safety Requirements

Safety requirements are not just paperwork, but a necessity to protect the lives of Allah's guests. Here are the most important requirements:

Construction Requirements

Structural safety of the building, free from dangerous cracks and fractures. Building compliance with approved plans and building permit. Safety of foundations, columns, and ceilings. Quality of construction materials used.

Fire Fighting Requirements

Providing sufficient emergency exits, no less than two per building. Escape routes, corridors, and stairs must comply with the Saudi Building Code. Installing automatic and manual fire extinguishing systems with regular maintenance. Providing valid fire extinguishers in sufficient numbers on each floor. Installing fire alarm systems and smoke detectors. Emergency lighting in corridors and stairs. Illuminated signs indicating emergency exits. Central kitchens are prohibited inside residential buildings.

Electrical Installation Requirements

Electrical installations must comply with safety requirements. Inspection of electrical panels and ensuring their safety. Prevention of random and exposed wiring. Providing appropriate circuit breakers.

Health and Cleanliness Requirements

Cleanliness of building, rooms, and common facilities. Safe sewage system. Clean water suitable for use. Good ventilation in all rooms and corridors. Adequate natural and artificial lighting. Building free from insects and rodents. Regular sterilization and cleaning.

Equipment Requirements

Providing sufficient and appropriate beds for the number of pilgrims. Clean and healthy mattresses and linens. Suitable furniture (wardrobes, tables, chairs). Appropriate air conditioning or cooling. Refrigerators for food storage. Sufficient and clean bathrooms.

Space Requirements

Room size must be proportionate to the number of residing pilgrims. No crowding inside rooms. Providing storage space for luggage. Considering separation between men and women in accommodation areas.

Fifth: Fees and Costs

The costs of obtaining a pilgrim housing permit are reasonable compared to expected returns. Here are the details:

Official Permit Fees

First-time permit issuance fee: 300 Saudi Riyals. Annual permit renewal fee: 200 Saudi Riyals.

Engineering Inspection Costs

Engineering office fees vary according to building size and location, but typically range between 500 and 2000 Riyals per inspection.

Building Preparation Costs

These costs depend on the building's condition and required preparation level: Installing safety and fire systems. Purchasing furniture and furnishings. Maintenance and improvement work. Air conditioning and electrical appliances.

Timeline

The Pilgrim Housing Committee receives applications from the first of Muharram until the end of Rajab each year. The last date for issuing permits is the end of Sha'ban. It is recommended to apply early to avoid delays and crowding.

Sixth: Most Demanded Neighborhoods for Pilgrim Housing

Not all areas are equal in demand for pilgrim housing. Some neighborhoods top the list due to their strategic location:

Al-Aziziya District

Al-Aziziya district tops the most demanded neighborhoods with 37% of total pilgrim buildings in Makkah. The neighborhood hosts about 2,000 buildings prepared for pilgrim housing. Reasons for its distinction: Central location between roads leading to Al-Haram and holy sites. Proximity to Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah. Availability of catering services and restaurants with diverse options. Major food supply stores and malls. Connection to main ring roads. Availability of bus stops and transportation.

Al-Misfalah District

Ranks second with approximately 21%, accommodating about 231,000 pilgrims. Distinguished by its proximity to the central area and commercial markets.

Haram Area

Accounts for 17% of pilgrim housing. Closest to Al-Masjid Al-Haram. Rental prices are the highest due to the prime location.

Al-Utaibiyah District

Represents 15% of pilgrim housing. Good location and moderate prices. Suitable for middle-income pilgrims.

Al-Rusaifah District

Ranks last with 8% and accommodates about 151,000 pilgrims. Prices are relatively lower, making it an economical option.

Other Permitted Areas

Al-Nuzha, Al-Zahir, Jarwal, and other approved neighborhoods. Maximum permitted distance for housing: 4,000 meters from Al-Haram.

Seventh: Is Renting Pilgrim Housing Profitable?

This question concerns every property owner in Makkah. The short answer: Yes, it's a very profitable investment! But let's look at the numbers and facts:

Financial Returns

The total returns for the pilgrim housing market in Al-Aziziya district alone are estimated at over 1.5 billion Riyals annually! A single room in a prime location can be rented for up to 60,000 Riyals during the entire Hajj season. Average stay for foreign pilgrims is approximately 30 days. 85% of demand focuses on hotel-style rooms (room with bathroom).

Factors Affecting Price

Room rental prices vary based on several factors: Proximity to Al-Haram (closer means higher price). Building modernity and finishing quality. Level of furnishing and equipment. Proximity to holy sites (Mina, Arafat). Availability of supporting services (dining halls, parking). Type of contract (with Hajj missions or individuals).

Returns Comparison

Renting housing to pilgrims for one month (Hajj season) can generate returns exceeding renting it for the entire year to a regular tenant! This is why many Makkah residents prefer renting their homes to pilgrims even if they have to relocate temporarily.

Challenges

Despite high profitability, there are challenges to consider: Intense market competition. Continuous preparation and maintenance costs. Commitment to renewed requirements. Seasonal income (once a year). Need for contracting with reliable Hajj missions or companies.

Eighth: Contracting with Hajj Missions

After obtaining the permit, you need to contract with an entity that sends you pilgrims. There are several options:

Electronic Pathway

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah launched the electronic pathway that links licensed housing owners with foreign Hajj missions. Registration in the electronic pathway allows you to appear to missions and contract with them directly.

Contracting with Hajj Companies

You can contract directly with Saudi or foreign Hajj and Umrah companies. These companies look for licensed housing for their pilgrims. Contracts are usually at a fixed price for the entire season.

Domestic Hajj Campaigns

Hajj campaigns serving citizens and residents within the Kingdom may need additional housing. Contacting these campaigns is a good option.

Contracting Tips

Make sure to document the contract officially. Clearly specify: Duration, price, number of pilgrims, included services. Receive an advance payment before the season. Ensure the other party complies with Hajj regulations.

Ninth: Violations and Penalties

Regulatory authorities intensively monitor pilgrim housing during the season. Violations expose the owner to strict penalties:

Types of Violations

Renting housing to pilgrims without a valid permit. Not meeting safety requirements. Exceeding the capacity specified in the permit. Providing services below the agreed level. Non-compliance with cleanliness and public health. Evading inspection teams.

Penalties

Financial fines varying according to violation type and recurrence. Permit cancellation and rental prohibition. Transferring pilgrims to alternative housing at the violating owner's expense. Recording an official violation report. Penalties may reach referral to judicial authorities in serious cases.

Field Teams

Field teams under the Pilgrim Housing Committee work around the clock during Hajj season. Teams include: Morning and evening teams. Emergency teams. About 26 field teams in Makkah. Team tasks: Verifying services, checking permits, following up on observations.

Tenth: Golden Tips for Owners and Investors

Before Applying for the Permit

Study the market well and learn about prevailing prices in your area. Ensure your building is ready for safety requirements before applying. Calculate expected costs and returns accurately. Submit your application early (first of Muharram) to avoid crowding.

When Preparing the Housing

Invest in quality, as pilgrims appreciate cleanliness and comfort. Pay attention to air conditioning systems (heat in Makkah is intense). Provide new and clean furnishings. Don't skimp on safety systems as they protect lives.

During Hajj Season

Monitor your housing continuously and ensure pilgrim satisfaction. Respond quickly to any complaints or observations. Maintain daily cleanliness. Be cooperative with inspection teams. Provide an emergency contact number.

For Annual Renewal

Don't wait for permit expiration, renew early. Address any observations recorded in the previous season. Update your equipment continuously. Follow annual requirement changes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a non-Saudi obtain a pilgrim housing permit?

The permit is issued to the property owner. If the property is legally owned by a non-Saudi investor, they can apply. However, property ownership in Makkah for foreigners has special regulations.

Can I rent only one apartment?

Yes, the permit can be for a complete building or a single apartment, depending on what the applicant owns.

What if my application is rejected?

If your application is rejected due to not meeting requirements, you will be notified of the observations. Address the observations and reapply.

Is building insurance mandatory?

Insurance is recommended to protect your investment, but check current requirements from the Pilgrim Housing Committee.

What's the difference between Makkah and Madinah permits?

Each city has its own Pilgrim Housing Committee. Procedures are similar but you must apply to the committee responsible for your property's location.

Can I rent the housing outside Hajj season?

The pilgrim housing permit is specific to Hajj season. For renting outside the season to Umrah performers or visitors, you may need other permits according to applicable regulations.

Conclusion

Renting pilgrim housing is a profitable investment and a great honor at the same time. With the meticulous organization established by the Kingdom, property owners in Makkah and Madinah can contribute to serving Allah's guests while achieving rewarding financial returns.

The key is commitment to requirements, early application, and investing in service quality. Always remember that you are hosting Allah's guests, so serve them well and Allah will be good to you.

We ask Allah to accept the pilgrims' Hajj, bless housing owners in their sustenance, and help us all in serving His Sacred House.