Banjul, 07 April 2025: The Ministry of Lands, Regional Government, and Religious Affairs, has provided key updates on the preparations for the Hajj 2025 preparations. In a briefing, the Honorable Minister Hamat NK Bah outlined important details regarding departure dates, costs, accommodation, and regulatory measures to ensure a smooth and organised pilgrimage for Gambian Muslims.
The Honourable Minister informed that the Hajj package for 2025 is priced at GMD 525,000, slightly lower than last year’s cost of GMD 531,000 and added that Gambian pilgrims are set to depart on May 15th, 16th, and 17th, 2025, with their first stop in Madinah for Ziyarat before proceeding to Makkah.
According to the Minister, the package for this year includes airfare, accommodation in Makkah and Madinah, catering services at the Holy Sites, ground transportation, visa fees, and a provision of 5 liters of Zamzam water.
Furthermore, he also pointed out that all pilgrims must have a valid Gambian passport, a medical certificate, and Yellow Fever vaccination card from government hospitals as part of the requirements. In addition, those with chronic illnesses are urged to inform the medical mission before departure for necessary medical arrangements.
To counter fraudulent dealings, the Ministry has authorized 15 travel agencies to handle Hajj packages, including Gambia International Airlines, Banjul Travel Agency, and Tivaouane Travel and Tours. The government has strongly advised pilgrims to book only through these approved agencies to ensure compliance with official regulations.
Updating on accommodation and catering, the Honorable Minister said that for the first time, all Gambian pilgrims will stay in the same hotels in both Madinah and Makkah, ensuring convenience and better coordination. These hotels are located near the Haram, providing easy access to the sacred sites. Additionally, a single catering company will provide meals, with three Gambian chefs overseeing food preparation. This initiative aims to maintain food quality and cater to the dietary preferences of Gambian pilgrims.
The Minister also gave details about hajj quota and strict visa regulations emphasizing that The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has allocated a quota of 2,000 pilgrims for The Gambia, along with 20 officials responsible for assisting pilgrims.
In a bid to prevent Pilgrims from violating the rules and regulations of the Hajj 2025, the Ministry issued a strong warning against unauthorised access to the Holy Sites (Mina, Arafat, Muzdalifah, and Jamarat) stressing that non-compliance with Saudi regulations will result in severe penalties, including an SAR 50,000 fine, deportation after a six-month prison sentence, and a five-year ban from entering Saudi Arabia.
Gambians residing in Saudi Arabia are urged to avoid the Holy Sites during the Hajj season, while travel operators and healthcare workers are advised not to assist non-Hajj visa holders in gaining access to these areas.
The ministry has also received information from The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia that Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has mandated the meningitis vaccine for domestic Hajj and Umrah pilgrims this year.
The Ministry urged all intending pilgrims to follow these guidelines to ensure a smooth and spiritually fulfilling pilgrimage.
By Amie Choi
