Hajj & Umrah for South
African muslims
The Proposed
Role of Government



It is in the interest of all role-players as well as
the South African Government to see an
effective Hajj and Umrah Agency.
As such all necessary assistance should be
provided to reach a permanent workable
solution.
It should be noted that the Saudi authorities
would recognize a representative Hajj and
Umrah Agency
Proposed role of Government
1.
2.
3.
4.
Provider of Consular Services
Exercise a watching brief in Saudi Arabia
over the interests of South Africans in
general and the Pilgrims (Hujjaaj) in
particular.
Recognise a Hajj & Umrah Agency
based on predetermined qualifying
criteria.
Collaborate with a Hajj & Umrah Agency
1. Provider of Consular Services
The DIRCO has a well defined and
established role in the provision of
Consular Services throughout the world.
 These services should be documented
and made available to the Hujjaaj (see British

Foreign Office bulletin)
The DIRCO should facilitate & oversee the
protocols between a Hajj & Umrah Agency
and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
 There should be a collaborative
relationship between DIRCO and a Hajj &
Umrah Agency.

2. Watching Brief
As custodian of South African interests
DIRCO should be sensitive to the changing
political and diplomatic environment in the
host country and mitigate negative
outcomes for South African Hujjaaj.
 The DIRCO should consult with a Hajj &
Umrah Agency to secure the best
outcomes for South African Hujjaaj (e.g. quota

allocation for SA)
3. Recognise a Hajj & Umrah agency
based on predetermined qualifying
criteria
1.
A Hajj & Umrah Agency shall comply
with requirements of a non-profit
association (duly incorporated) acting in the
interests of the Hujjaaj and compliant to
South African law.
4. Collaborate with a Hajj & Umrah
Agency
DIRCO shall be responsible to negotiate
& ensure compliance of all Hajj Protocols.
 DIRCO shall secure a multi-year
negotiated quota.
 DIRCO shall provide all diplomatic/
consular support.
 DIRCO shall secure documentation (e.g.
the deceased)

Recommendation

We will seek an audience with Portfolio
committee or Minister, in order to ratify
DIRCO and Government roles in Hajj.