How does the الحج lottery work and what are my odds?

المملكة العربية السعودية limits total الحجاج to about 2 to 2.5 million yearly. Countries with large Muslim populations must allocate limited slots among many applicants. Indonesia has the longest wait at 15 to 25 years with a queue system. Nigeria and African countries use random ballots with 5 to 10 year averages. Western countries have shorter waits of 1 to 3 years.

To improve chances: apply as early as possible in queue-based systems. In lottery systems, apply every year without fail. First-time applicants and elderly are often given priority. Some countries allow couple or family applications.

Keep registration details, contact information, and passport current. If not selected, your application may carry forward with priority in many systems.