UAE Opens Hajj 2024 Registration

Saudi Arabia is set to welcome pilgrims in June of the coming year.

To secure a seat for the journey to the home of Islam's holiest sites, pilgrims can now register for Hajj 2024 through the United Arab Emirates. Since there are only a limited number of slots available, the General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments (Awqaf) advises interested individuals to register before December 21. The registration platform for Hajj 2024 was announced open on Tuesday, December 5.

The General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments (Awqaf) has provided detailed instructions for UAE citizens on how to register for the Haj pilgrimage. You can do this by either downloading the app or logging onto its website and clicking on the ‘Hajj registration’ icon. Once there, you will need to enter your UAE Pass (digital ID) and your personal information. - Khaleej Times

It's important to note that Emiratis were previously granted Hajj licenses in the United Arab Emirates. For expatriates, it is recommended to register for the Hajj following the guidelines and quotas set by their own home countries.

To go on the pilgrimage, residents from the UAE must obtain a Hajj visa from Saudi Arabia. This involves showing their passport, a recent photo, proof of vaccination for a sickness called meningococcal disease, and demonstrating they have enough money for their stay in Saudi Arabia.

Many pilgrims opt for a convenient Hajj package from travel agencies, covering airfare, accommodation, and transportation to Makkah and Madina.

In 2023, more than 1.8 million people went on this journey to Makkah, which was the largest number since COVID-19 started.

Starting in May of next year, pilgrims are expected to arrive in Saudi Arabia for the June pilgrimage. To secure a spot on this holy voyage, applicants are encouraged to sign up as soon as possible via the Awqaf UAE smart app.