On September 17, 2026, Tunisian Minister of Religious Affairs Ahmed Al-Bouhali held a meeting with key officials from Saudi Arabian Airlines and Tunisian Airlines to review preparations for the upcoming Hajj season. The meeting was attended by Nayeef Al-Ajhar, Senior Manager of Saudi Arabian Airlines for North Africa, Ahmed Al-Sahli, Manager of Saudi Arabian Airlines in Tunisia, Faraj bin Saad, Representative of Tunisian Airlines, and Nour Eddine Ben Bouabker, Manager of Hajj and Umrah at the National Services and Residences Company.
During the meeting, Minister Al-Bouhali emphasized the importance of thorough preparation for the new Hajj season and coordination regarding the opening of windows for completing travel procedures. He also stressed the need for participation in awareness-raising courses for pilgrims. The Minister urged the need to avoid some of the negative aspects that were recorded during the evaluation of the previous Hajj season and to build on the positive elements and develop them.
A working session was held at the Ministry to review the framework agreement that defines the roles of the various stakeholders involved in the Hajj, particularly airlines. The session aimed to ensure that all parties are aware of their responsibilities and to guarantee a smooth and well-organized Hajj experience for Tunisian pilgrims.
The Director General of the Ministry's office, Ghafran Al-Sahli, called for thorough preparation for the opening of windows for completing travel procedures and for the digitalization of transactions. She also emphasized the need for each airline to adhere to its responsibilities at Tunisian airports, which will be used for Hajj flights, and to ensure equal services for pilgrims from different regions.
The meeting comes as part of the Tunisian government's efforts to improve the Hajj experience for its citizens. The government has been working to enhance the services provided to pilgrims and to address the challenges faced during previous Hajj seasons. The Minister of Religious Affairs has been leading these efforts, in coordination with relevant authorities and stakeholders.
The upcoming Hajj season is expected to take place in 2027, and preparations are underway to ensure a successful and well-organized pilgrimage. The Tunisian government has been working closely with Saudi Arabian authorities and airlines to guarantee a smooth and safe experience for its pilgrims.
Key points
- The Tunisian Minister of Religious Affairs emphasized the importance of thorough preparation for the upcoming Hajj season.
- The government is working to improve the Hajj experience for its citizens by enhancing services and addressing previous challenges.
- A framework agreement has been established to define the roles of various stakeholders involved in the Hajj, particularly airlines.
