The General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Zakat (Awqaf UAE) has announced that UAE citizens who wish to perform Haj in 2025 can start registering for the pilgrimage on Thursday, September 19. The registration process will be open until September 30 and can be done through the smart app or the website of Awqaf UAE. Applicants must be UAE citizens, at least 12 years old, and must not have performed Haj in the last five seasons to register with Awqaf.
Priority for next year’s pilgrimage will be given to people of determination going for the first time, those with incurable diseases, the elderly, and their relatives and companions. The UAE will have slots for 6,228 pilgrims for the 2025 pilgrimage, a quota allocated by Haj affairs authorities in Saudi Arabia. Awqaf UAE will issue Haj permits and ‘Nusuk’ cards in coordination with Saudi authorities to ensure that pilgrims receive all necessary facilities and services.
Regular evaluations of Haj campaigns and associated teams will be conducted by Awqaf UAE to ensure adherence to specified standards. Awareness initiatives and dedicated hotlines will be set up to guide the country’s pilgrims on their journey. About 1.8 million pilgrims reportedly performed Haj this year, with 1.6 million coming from outside Saudi Arabia. Haj is considered one of the five pillars of Islam and is mandatory for all Muslims who have the means to perform it.
Typically, the UAE only issues Haj permits for Emiratis, while expatriates must avail the quota of their home countries and follow their procedures. Pilgrims usually go for Haj through licensed tour operators, who offer all-inclusive packages covering visa costs, hotels, transport, and food. A list of licensed operators is available on the website of Awqaf UAE and the General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments.
The pilgrimage to Haj is a significant event in the lives of Muslims, and the UAE government is committed to ensuring that its citizens have the opportunity to fulfill this religious obligation. The registration process for the 2025 pilgrimage has been made accessible through digital platforms, making it easier for applicants to sign up. The allocation of slots and priority for certain groups show a thoughtful and inclusive approach by the authorities in facilitating the pilgrimage experience.
The cooperation between Awqaf UAE and Saudi authorities in issuing permits and providing necessary facilities demonstrates a commitment to the well-being and safety of pilgrims. The regular evaluations of Haj campaigns and associated teams ensure that standards are maintained and pilgrims receive the best possible services. The upcoming awareness initiatives and dedicated hotlines will further assist pilgrims in preparing for their journey, providing them with guidance and support throughout the process.
Overall, the announcement of the registration process for the 2025 Haj pilgrimage reflects the UAE’s dedication to upholding religious traditions and facilitating the spiritual journey of its citizens. By providing clear guidelines, support services, and collaborative efforts with Saudi authorities, the UAE aims to ensure a smooth and meaningful Haj experience for all participants. With the registration open until September 30, UAE citizens are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity to fulfill their religious obligations and embark on this transformative journey.
