From Tents to Towers: Mumbai Pilgrims are Opting for Highrise-Haj in Mina

For centuries, the "tent city" of Mina, near Mecca, has been a temporary home for millions of Hajj pilgrims from across the globe, a mandatory stop in their sacred journey. However, a transformation is underway, with a growing number of Mumbai pilgrims opting for a new kind of accommodation: multi-story towers offering enhanced amenities. This shift reflects a changing landscape in how some pilgrims experience the Hajj, blending tradition with modern comforts.

Staying in Mina for five days is a compulsory ritual of the Hajj. Traditionally, pilgrims resided in simple tents, or "khemas". In recent years, Saudi authorities have constructed several towers in the Mina valley, providing pilgrims with air-conditioned rooms, clean toilets, larger kitchens, and spacious prayer areas. These towers present an alternative to the traditional tent experience, particularly appealing to those seeking a more comfortable stay.

Former actress Sana Khan, who left the entertainment industry in 2020, is preparing for her fourth Hajj. This year, she and her husband will be among the first wave of Indian pilgrims to stay in a Mina tower, marking a departure from her previous experiences in the tent city.

Several tour operators are now offering "upgraded Hajj experiences" with "classic and premium packages" that include accommodation in Mina Towers. These packages cater to affluent pilgrims seeking enhanced comfort and convenience during their pilgrimage.

The shift towards tower accommodations comes amidst ongoing concerns about overcrowding in the traditional Mina tents. In 2025, many Indian pilgrims expressed dissatisfaction with the congested conditions, reporting that tents designed for 200 people were often filled with 300 or more. Some pilgrims recounted a lack of space and inadequate facilities, even after paying significant sums for the pilgrimage.

In anticipation of the Hajj, the Haj division of the Ministry of Minority Affairs in India has urged private Hajj pilgrims to book their seats by January 15th to ensure smooth and well-organized arrangements. Out of India's quota of 175,000 pilgrims, 52,000 will travel through Haj group organizations and private tour operators, while the remainder will utilize the services of the Haj Committee of India.

The Ministry of Minority Affairs consistently strives to ensure a comfortable and dignified journey for all Indian Hajj pilgrims, providing information and grievance reporting services through the "Haj Suvidha" mobile app. A new Haj House is also under construction near Mumbai in Kharghar, Navi Mumbai, to modernize infrastructure and enhance facilities for pilgrims. Mumbai already has a 19-story Haj House near the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus.

While the towers offer enhanced comfort, the traditional tent city remains a significant part of the Hajj experience for many. In 2023, around two million pilgrims from across the globe converged on Mina, marking the return to full capacity since the start of the coronavirus pandemic. Saudi authorities have also launched new buildings in Mina to accommodate domestic pilgrims, with each building featuring multiple floors and elevators to facilitate movement.