Your Hajj Team at the Islamic Association of Raleigh is excited to share updates for our Hajj 2025. With valuable insights gained from last Hajj, we have refined our process to ensure a smooth and supported experience for our community.
Background:
Similar to last year, the Ministry of Hajj & Umrah since Covid mandates that Hajj packages for Western countries, including the USA, be exclusively managed by licensed local companies in Saudi Arabia and solely booked through the Nusuk portal (https://hajj.nusuk.sa). Previously, we coordinated much of our Hajj logistics directly with Adam Travels, but under the new system, Saudi-based companies manage many primary on-the-ground arrangements. This shift has impacted certain aspects of our Hajj experience. However, we are here, alongside our partners at Adam Travels, with our expertise to make the journey smoother.
Key Notes for 2025:
- Registration Process: As with last year, all registrations must go through the Nusuk portal. We encourage everyone to set up their Nusuk profile at https://hajj.nusuk.sa.
- First-Come-First-Basis Allocation: Package allocation will follow a first-come, first-reservation system. While we will assist you through the registration, selection process, launch/booking windows, deadlines, and all in between, we cannot guarantee specific spots due to this new Nusuk system.
Next Steps:
Remember, we are still early in the process!
To stay informed about Hajj 2025, please complete our Interest Form here. This will ensure you’re on our mailing list and receive timely updates on package availability, registration timelines, and key details. After, we will also invite you to join our local WhatsApp group for real-time updates and access to the IAR Hajj Team for questions and support.
Join the IAR Hajj Interest Form
Thank you for allowing us to be a part of your Hajj journey. We look forward to embarking on this sacred path together and are committed to making your experience as rewarding as possible.
Guides & Process:
This is the official process map from Nusuk. We are at stage 01 – 03 at this time. The stage 04 and onwards will start when the Hajj Ministry announces it.
Last year, the booking window (stage 09) opened around mid-March (early Ramadan). If they are to follow the same schedule, we are looking at late February or early March (early Ramadan 2025).
Here are a few guides on Nusuk Registration to make the process easier: PDF | Video (by a fellow provider)
Key Terms: Hajj Packages Overview
Though we will have an IAR-specific package, we want you to be familiar with the language of different packages:
Packages:
- Non-Shifting Package: This option means that your hotel in Makkah remains booked for the entire Hajj period, including the days you’ll spend performing rites in Mina. You’ll have access to your room anytime, so you can return to your hotel whenever needed.
- Shifting Package: In a shifting package, you’ll start at a hotel close to the Haram in Makkah, but a day or two before you leave for Mina, you’ll be moved to accommodations in Azizia, farther from the Haram and closer to Mina area. We do not recommend this.
Camps:
- Majar Al Kabash Camp (VIP & Extremely limited in spots): This camp is just a 10-15 minute walk from Jamarat. Private transfers from Makkah to Mina are provided, along with mono-rail service during Hajj between Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah. The camp is less crowded, offering a more comfortable and private experience, though spots are extremely limited.
- Al Muassim Camp (A lot of walking and not suitable for many): Known previously as the North American Tents, Al Muassim is about a 1-hour to 1.5-hour walk from Jamarat each way. It is hot (shaded tunnel, however) and crowded. Transportation between Mina and Makkah can be inconsistent during Hajj days. Last Hajj, we walked from Muzdalifah back to Mina as well, which took around 1.5 hours. It is difficult, but it is manageable with preparation!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an age limit for Hajj this year?
The minimum age for Hajj is 12 years, with no upper age limit.
How will payments be processed?
Payments for Hajj packages will be made directly through Nusuk via debit/credit card or bank transfer. You should not pay anyone else anything for Hajj.
Are vaccinations required?
Yes, meningitis (ACWY) and full COVID-19 vaccinations are mandatory for all pilgrims.
Final Remarks:
We understand these changes may be new to many, and we are here to assist you at every step. Please feel free to contact Br Hassan of our Hajj Team or Br Rami from Adam Travels for any questions or further assistance.
Thank you for your continued trust in us, and we look forward to joining you on your journey of a lifetime.
