The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has officially announced the registration dates for individuals intending to participate in the Islamic pilgrimage, Haj, in the year 2024. The General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments has stated that interested pilgrims can register through their designated application from December 5th to December 21st.

In the upcoming year, Saudi Arabia will be hosting pilgrims at the holiest sites of Islam in the month of June. A Saudi minister has previously mentioned that the first group of pilgrims will arrive in May.

The UAE government advises individuals to book their pilgrimage in advance due to the limited quota of pilgrims allowed to participate in Haj. This measure ensures that individuals from various countries around the world have the opportunity to undertake this sacred journey.

Typically, the UAE grants Haj permits exclusively to Emiratis, while expatriates must adhere to the quotas and procedures set by their respective home countries. The General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments provides a list of licensed tour operators on their website, through which pilgrims can arrange their travel. These operators offer comprehensive Haj packages that cover visa expenses, accommodations, transportation, and meals.

Last year marked the return of the annual pilgrimage to full capacity since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic. Saudi Arabia welcomed over 2 million pilgrims in 2023, a significant increase from the previous year’s 900,000, as the kingdom lifted all Covid-related restrictions.

Haj is considered one of the fundamental pillars of Islam, and it is obligatory for physically and financially capable Muslims to undertake this pilgrimage at least once in their lifetime.