Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Hajj has introduced new criteria and a certification process for foreign media personnel and journalists who wish to cover the 2027 Hajj, according to Hajj Reporters. The changes tighten the requirements for reporters working at the holy sites and route their accreditation through the Kingdom's Nusuk digital system.
The reform means that covering the pilgrimage will now follow a more structured path, bringing media arrangements closer to the model already used for medical and other specialised services provided to Hajj missions.
What the new rules require
Under the new guidelines, foreign Hajj missions must upload their media team's biodata and details to the Nusuk Portal before a 2027 Hajj visa can be approved. This places journalist accreditation inside the same digital gateway that already handles much of the pilgrimage's registration and permit processing.
The regulations also require media teams from all Hajj-participating countries to work under the umbrella of a Saudi-based media establishment, after signing the necessary contractual agreements. In practice, foreign crews will need a local partner organisation to operate through, rather than working independently.
According to Hajj Reporters, this framework mirrors the arrangement used for medical services, where Hajj missions must enter into agreements with Saudi-based establishments. Applying the same structure to media coverage signals an intent to formalise how information is gathered and broadcast during the season.
Why the Kingdom is tightening the process
High-level sources told Hajj Reporters that the Kingdom intends to reduce the spread of fake news during Hajj. Every year the pilgrimage draws intense global attention, and unverified reports can circulate quickly across social media, sometimes causing alarm among families of pilgrims.
The authorities have resolved to ensure that only well-trained and professional media platforms are allowed to cover the 2027 Hajj. By requiring experience and professional standing, officials aim to raise the quality and accuracy of reporting from the holy sites.
The move reflects a broader pattern in recent seasons, in which Saudi authorities have steadily digitised and regulated services around the pilgrimage to improve oversight and accountability.
How accreditation worked before
Prior to the new regulations, media accreditation for Hajj required official permits issued by the Saudi General Authority for Media Regulation through digital platforms such as the authority's own systems and the Tawakkalna app. The permit requirements differed for local and international media delegations.
Under that system, a separate permit for technical equipment was used to obtain clearance for temporary radio and television studios and for satellite uplink vehicles. A filming clearance, functioning as a mandatory no-objection certificate, was required for shooting at the holy sites. Once approved, journalists received a digital work card through the Tawakkalna app that allowed movement within the holy areas.
The new framework builds on that foundation but adds the requirement to register through Nusuk and to operate under a Saudi-based media establishment, while emphasising professional experience.
Practical guidance for media planning 2027 coverage
News organisations intending to send crews to the 2027 Hajj should begin coordinating early with their national Hajj missions, since biodata must be submitted through Nusuk before visas are issued. Delays in registration could affect visa approval and, in turn, the ability to travel.
Outlets should also identify a Saudi-based media establishment to partner with and allow time to complete the contractual agreements the new rules require. Confirming that all team members meet the professional experience standards ahead of application will help avoid last-minute obstacles. As with all pilgrimage arrangements, media planners are advised to follow official announcements from the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah for the final procedures and deadlines.