Registration Opens for Hajj Research Award in Makkah

Registration has opened for the second edition of the Researchers in the Service of Pilgrims award, a programme focused on supporting applied research and innovation in the Hajj and Umrah sector.

The initiative is organised by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah in cooperation with the Ministry of Education, with applications opening on April 23rd, 2026. It targets undergraduate and graduate students, as well as faculty members and researchers from academic and research institutions inside and outside Saudi Arabia.

The award encourages the development of practical solutions addressing operational challenges and opportunities within the sector, with the aim of improving the overall pilgrim experience and advancing service delivery.

Submissions will be evaluated across eight strategic tracks, including digital transformation and artificial intelligence, spiritual experience enhancement, sustainability, crowd safety, health services, smart transport, economics and support services, and data governance.

The total prize pool amounts to SAR 1,625,000, alongside additional support such as consultations to assist in implementing selected projects.

Applicants are invited to review eligibility criteria and submit proposals through the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah’s official website.