The Government of Ghana, through the Pilgrims Affairs Office of Ghana (PAOG), has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to officially begin preparations for the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage.

The agreement was signed in Jeddah on Sunday, November 10, 2024, by the Chairman of PAOG, Alhaji Abdul-Rauf Tanko Ibrahim, on behalf of the Government of Ghana.

The signing signifies Ghana’s readiness to participate in next year’s Hajj and outlines key operational frameworks for the country’s participation.

According to a statement issued by the Communications Directorate of PAOG, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah reviewed Ghana’s performance in previous Hajj operations, identified key challenges, and discussed strategies to improve the welfare and overall experience of Ghanaian pilgrims while maintaining the sanctity of the pilgrimage.

The MoU covers several critical areas, including the allocation of pilgrim slots, service contracts, accommodation, and transportation arrangements.

It also addresses camp bookings, visa procedures, and the enforcement of welfare and health standards.

Both parties also agreed on specific timelines for operational readiness, as well as camp, transport, and accommodation arrangements, which will be coordinated through the Musuk Masar digital platform.

The agreement officially confirms Ghana’s inclusion in the 2026 Hajj exercise and sets clear expectations for service quality, compliance with health protocols, and efficient coordination between the two countries.

PAOG Chairman, Alhaji Abdul-Rauf Tanko Ibrahim, extended warm greetings to all Ghanaian Muslims and Hajj stakeholders. He also appealed to prospective pilgrims to pay their Hajj fare of GHS 60,000 early to facilitate smooth planning and effective management ahead of the pilgrimage.

The statement was signed by Alhaji Mohammed Aminu Lamptey Hussein of the Communications Directorate, Pilgrims Affairs Office of Ghana.