Hajj Management in Developing Sustainability under the Department of Provincial Administration, Ministry of Interior

Abstract

The study “Hajj Administration for Sustainable Development under the Department of Provincial Administration, Ministry of Interior” aims to examine the evolution of Thailand’s Hajj management, beginning from a system driven mainly by private operators and group leaders to a state-regulated mechanism supported by the Hajj Promotion Acts of 1981, 1989, and 2016. The research investigates relevant policies, legal frameworks, and the central role of the Department of Provincial Administration as the main coordinating agency. A qualitative methodology was employed, involving in-depth interviews, focus groups, brainstorming sessions, and document analysis. The 45 informants included government officials, experts, Hajj operators, group leaders, and Thai pilgrims. Data were analyzed using Colaizzi’s qualitative analysis approach to synthesize key themes systematically. Findings indicate that transferring Hajj responsibilities to the Department enhanced structural efficiency, nationwide coordination, and access to population database systems. However, limitations remain in staffing, budget, technology, language capacity, and adaptation to new regulations introduced by Saudi Arabia under Vision 2030. Key recommendations include elevating the institutional status of the Hajj unit, establishing clear short-, medium-, and long-term strategies, improving information systems compatible with Saudi Arabia’s E-Hajj system, strengthening the Hajj fund for financial stability, enhancing staff competencies, and enforcing transparent and fair standards for Hajj operators.