Srinagar, Aug 29: Alkhuddam Hajj & Umrah Services, which has been serving pilgrims from across India with a special focus on Jammu and Kashmir, has secured its place in the Category-1 eligible list for Hajj 2026, the organisation said.
The development marks a significant step forward for the company after a four-year period during which it was unable to secure eligibility under the revised cluster-based arrangements introduced under the new Hajj policy.
The company said it was recognised as a Star-1 company from 2019 to 2022. However, following the introduction of the new Hajj policy in 2024 by the Ministry of Hajj, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the industry framework was reorganised into clusters, with the Cluster Head becoming the highest position in the new structure.
Alkhuddam said it could not secure eligibility under the new cluster-based arrangements during 2023, 2024 and 2025, preventing it from pursuing the top position during those years.
“Alhamdulillah, in 2026 we have secured our place in the eligible list as Category 1. This recognition strengthens our resolve and renews our duty to serve with even greater excellence,” the organisation said in a statement.
The company said it now aims to bring the Cluster Head-level position (CHGO) to Jammu and Kashmir and has begun working towards that objective. “Our vision is not only to participate, but to lead—through transparency, disciplined operations, and the highest standards of pilgrim care,” it said.
Focus on affordable and premium packages
Alkhuddam said it intends to cater to pilgrims across different sections of society during the upcoming Hajj season, including those looking for economy and value-focused packages.
The organisation said its Premium Economy package may be priced at around Rs 7.50 lakh, subject to finalisation and other applicable factors.
It said the focus would remain on providing maximum value to pilgrims while ensuring a comfortable and meaningful Hajj experience.
The organisation also announced plans to further enhance its flagship Alkhuddam Premium Platinum package, which it said has been offered since 2001.
According to the company, the Premium Platinum service will receive additional personalisation and upgraded services aligned with international standards, with greater emphasis on individual attention, guidance and pilgrim care.
Eight pilgrims to get free Umrah
As part of its outreach to long-standing patrons and well-wishers, Alkhuddam also announced that eight persons will be taken for Umrah free of cost.
The eight beneficiaries, the organisation said, will be selected through a draw of lots.
Expressing gratitude to its patrons and supporters who stood by the organisation during what it described as a challenging four-year period, Alkhuddam said their trust had remained a source of strength.
“After enduring a difficult period of four years, Alkhuddam is revalidating its founding commitment—to serve Hajjis far better and with greater sincerity than ever before,” the organisation said.
Sheikh Feroz Ahmad, on behalf of Alkhuddam Hajj & Umrah Services, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to pilgrim welfare and said the company would continue working towards providing reliable, transparent and quality services to Hajj and Umrah pilgrims from Jammu and Kashmir and across India.
