The Somali Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs has announced the cost of the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage, setting the price at $4,604 per pilgrim. The price marks a modest increase from last year due to rising travel and accommodation costs in Saudi Arabia, sparking renewed concerns about affordability for many Somali pilgrims.
The Ministry revealed the updated fee on Saturday, emphasizing its commitment to balancing affordability and transparency with high-quality services. The price includes all essential expenses in both Somalia and Saudi Arabia, covering transportation, accommodation, and logistical arrangements. Officials attributed the cost hike to inflation and increased demand for travel and lodging during the Hajj season.
Despite the Ministry’s efforts, Somali pilgrims continue to face significantly higher costs compared to neighbouring countries. For instance, Hajj packages in Ethiopia, Kenya, and Djibouti can be as low as $1,600, while Somali pilgrims pay nearly three times that amount. The disparity has fueled frustration among Somalis, leading Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre to criticize agencies for inflating prices.
In recent years, Somali pilgrims have paid some of the highest fees in the region. In 2022, costs ranged between $5,500 and $6,000, while 2024 saw a slight reduction to $4,434.
The Ministry’s announcement follows the efforts of a Somali-Saudi expert committee tasked with evaluating service costs. Formed in 2023, the committee oversees health and safety compliance, travel logistics, and service quality. Officials warned that companies overcharging pilgrims or failing to meet standards would face consequences.
Allegations of mismanagement have plagued the Ministry in the past. In 2023, the religious group Ahlu Sunna Waljama’a (ASWJ) accused the Ministry of favouritism during the bidding process for Hajj service providers. The group severed ties with the Ministry, citing unfair practices.
The Hajj committee has taken steps to ensure Somali pilgrims have a smooth experience, inspecting accommodations in Saudi Arabia and coordinating travel arrangements. In 2024, Daallo Airlines secured the contract for transporting Somali pilgrims, competing against 10 other airlines.
The first group of Somali pilgrims is expected to depart for Saudi Arabia in mid-May, with the committee promising a well-organized and transparent process.
Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam, a sacred obligation for all financially and physically capable Muslims.
