Ibtesam Gul
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah’s unified call center, reachable on 1966, is operating continuously to support pilgrims during the 2025 Hajj season
Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has expanded its direct support services for pilgrims ahead of this year’s Hajj season, operating a round-the-clock call center capable of handling inquiries in 11 languages.
The service runs through the unified number 1966 for callers inside the Kingdom, with an international line — +966920002814 — available for those reaching out from abroad. According to the Ministry, the center accepts queries, complaints, and feedback at any hour, with trained staff coordinating responses with relevant authorities to resolve issues efficiently.
The center serves pilgrims arriving from countries across the world, reflecting the diversity of those who make the journey to Makkah and Madinah each year. Ministry officials said the multilingual capability was designed to reduce the communication barriers that can complicate an already demanding trip. Support is available under the Ministry’s hospitality initiative, “Hayyakum Allah” — an Arabic phrase meaning “Welcome.”
Behind the operation is a call management system that routes inquiries based on staff skills, which the Ministry says improves the accuracy of responses and cuts wait times. Qualified personnel handle each case directly, escalating where needed to the appropriate government departments.
The Ministry described the call center as part of a broader effort to improve the overall experience for pilgrims — not just during Hajj, but for Umrah visitors throughout the year. Officials said the goal is to ensure anyone making the journey can access help quickly, without language being an obstacle.
For pilgrims preparing to travel, the key contacts are: 1966 within Saudi Arabia, and +966920002814 from overseas.
