Hajj 2026: How to register in UAE?
Awqaf gives priority to first-time Emirati pilgrims
DUBAI: The United Arab Emirates has announced that registration for the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage will officially open in September 2025.
The announcement comes shortly after the successful conclusion of the 2025 Hajj season and gives residents early notice to prepare for the next Islamic pilgrimage to Makkah.
The General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Zakat (Awqaf) confirmed that Emirati citizens who have not previously performed Hajj will be given priority. This ensures broader access to the spiritual journey and helps manage the growing demand for limited Hajj permits.
How to register for Hajj 2026?
All applications must be submitted through Awqaf’s dedicated digital platforms. These official channels are designed to offer a simplified and secure experience, integrating advanced technologies to verify eligibility, streamline the process, and keep applicants updated in real time.
Full instructions will be released ahead of the opening date, but interested residents are advised to begin gathering required documents, reviewing Awqaf’s guidelines, and following official updates on their platforms.
Only UAE citizens and residents with valid Emirates IDs will be eligible to apply. Additionally, priority criteria include age limits, health clearances, and confirmation of not having performed Hajj previously, in line with Awqaf’s effort to offer equal opportunity to new pilgrims.
What documents are needed?
While the complete list of documents will be published closer to registration, previous years have required the following:
- Emirates ID and passport copy
- Recent passport-sized photograph
- Medical fitness certificate
- Proof of residency (for non-citizens)
- Vaccination records, including meningitis and seasonal influenza
Prospective pilgrims are encouraged to ensure that these documents are valid and updated ahead of September.
When is Hajj 2026?
In a significant development, Saudi Arabia’s National Centre for Meteorology (NCM) has released a 25-year forecast for Hajj dates. Beginning in 2026, Hajj will no longer take place in the intense summer months. This shift, based on the Islamic lunar calendar being approximately 11 days shorter than the Gregorian year, means Hajj will occur progressively earlier each year.
Hajj 2026 is expected to take place during the spring months, between March and May. From 2026 to 2033, the pilgrimage will continue to occur in spring. It will then shift to winter seasons between 2034 and 2041, followed by autumn from 2042 until 2049. The summer schedule will not resume until August 2050.
This long-term seasonal shift is anticipated to reduce the risks associated with extreme heat, particularly for elderly pilgrims and those with chronic health conditions. It is also likely to improve crowd control, logistics, and emergency response efforts.
What does it cost?
Though pricing details for Hajj 2026 have yet to be finalised, previous packages from the UAE have ranged from Dh25,000 to Dh50,000, depending on accommodation quality, transport, and additional services. Awqaf will publish official package details, approved travel agents, and procedural updates closer to the registration period.
Applicants are reminded to register only through authorised channels to avoid fraud or misinformation.
What about Umrah?
While Hajj remains limited to specific dates and quotas, Umrah can be performed at any time of the year. Following the conclusion of Hajj 2025, Saudi authorities have resumed issuing Umrah visas as of Tuesday.
This extended access to Umrah offers UAE residents an alternative opportunity for pilgrimage while they await Hajj approval or registration. Umrah travel can be arranged through approved agents or directly via Saudi Arabia’s Nusuk platform.
Stay updated
Awqaf’s digital platforms remain the primary source for authentic updates, application procedures, and announcements related to Hajj and Umrah. Prospective pilgrims are strongly advised to monitor these platforms regularly and begin early preparations for a smooth and compliant experience.