The Saudi Ministry of Haj has issued a memorandum announcing that a Haj mission is not part of a consular mission and therefore not accorded diplomatic immunity and privileges.
The memo said that a Haj mission (administrative or diplomatic) is not considered a diplomatic or a consular mission, so the principle of reciprocity included in the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations in 1961 does not apply to them.
“Therefore, it does not fall within the jurisdiction and functions of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs but rather is linked by virtue of its working nature with the Ministry of Haj, apart from being subject to the local regulations of Saudi Arabia and other related government authorities on Haj affairs ,” the Ministry of Haj said.
The circular was signed by Haj Minister Dr. Bandar bin Muhammad Al-Najjar, former chairman of the National Society for Human Rights and deputy chairman of the Shoura Council.
The ministry also said that to differentiate between a Haj mission and diplomatic and consular mission, it has been decided that the name “Haj Mission” will be changed to "Haj Affairs Office."
The name “Medical Haj Mission” will also be changed to “Haj Medical Office.” These offices will be regarded as official representatives of pilgrims. It will handle all related official procedures without the rights and benefits granted to diplomatic and consular missions.
“It is hoped that all Haj affairs authorities in countries from which all hajis will embark will observe the usage of the new names in their correspondences and signage in their premises and pilgrims' accommodations by the end of Haj season 1433H,” the Ministry of Hjj said.
The ministry will be the authority supervising the activities of all countries' Haj Affairs Offices. All correspondence between the Haj Affairs Office and any Haj-related government authority will be conducted through the Ministry of Haj.
Ministry issues circular on Haj missions
