The UAE government has officially opened registration for Muslims intending to undertake the Hajj pilgrimage in the year 2024.
The General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments has made it convenient for prospective pilgrims, allowing them to register through their app between Tuesday December 5 and Thursday December 21, 2023.
Those who want to perform Hajj need to either download the Islamic Affairs app or log on to the website and click on the ‘Hajj registration’ tab. You have to then enter your Emirates ID and mobile phone number.
Getting a Hajj visa:
To perform the pilgrimage, UAE residents will need a Hajj visa issued by the Saudi government. The requirements for a Hajj visa include a valid passport, a recent photo, proof of vaccination against meningococcal disease, and proof of enough funds to cover expenses during your stay in Saudi Arabia.
In 2023, more than 1.8 million worshippers participated in the journey to Makkah, marking the largest number in attendance since the COVID-19 pandemic. Saudi Arabia will welcome pilgrims to Islam’s holiest sites in June next year, with the first batch expected to arrive in May.
Awqaf released a step-by-step guide explaining the registration process for those in the UAE:
- Download the latest version of the Awqaf UAE smart app
- Open the app and tap the ‘Haj permit service’ option
- Log in with your UAE Pass (digital ID)
- Once logged in, a registration icon — along with a series of steps — will appear. Tap on the ‘register’ icon and follow the procedures
- Make sure that all personal details are accurate
Typically, the UAE issues Haj permits only for Emiratis. Expatriates have to go through the quota and procedures of their home countries.
Most pilgrims prefer to travel with a Hajj package offered by a travel agency, which includes airfare, accommodation, and transportation to and from the holy sites in Makkah and Madina. Pilgrims usually go for the pilgrimage via licensed tour operators, a list of which is available on the website of the General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments. Operators offer all-inclusive Haj packages that take care of visa costs, hotels, transport and food.
When will Hajj 2024 take place?
Hajj takes place in the Islamic month called Dhu Al Hijja, which marks the final month of the Islamic calendar. The upcoming pilgrimage, slated for 2024, is expected to take place in mid-June. Right after Hajj, Muslims all over the world will celebrate Eid Al Adha.
