In the heart of every Muslim lies a profound desire to fulfill the obligation of Hajj, one of the five pillars of Islam that carries deep spiritual significance and fosters unity and solidarity among Muslims worldwide. For citizens of the United Arab Emirates, Hajj represents more than just a religious rite; it is a journey of faith and devotion.
As the 2024 Hajj season approaches, questions arise about the details of the pilgrimage for Emiratis and residents in the UAE as they prepare for this sacred journey, anticipating the spiritual experience that awaits them in the holy city of Mecca.
Hajj Dates for 2024
Hajj begins on the eighth of Dhu al-Hijjah, corresponding to Friday, June 14, and continues until the fourteenth of Dhu al-Hijjah, which falls on Wednesday, June 19, 2024. These dates are based on the lunar sighting of the month of Dhu al-Hijjah and may vary depending on the lunar calendar.
Organizing Hajj Journey from the UAE
The United Arab Emirates, through its close collaboration with Saudi authorities, ensures a safe and comfortable Hajj experience for its citizens and residents alike. This entails efficiently organizing Hajj campaigns, providing comprehensive information, and necessary guidance to pilgrims. These campaigns are characterized by organization and tranquility, allowing pilgrims to focus fully on performing the rituals of Hajj without worry or disturbance.
Hajj Registration from the UAE for 2024
Registration for Hajj and obtaining the appropriate permits are essential steps that every pilgrim must undertake before embarking on their journey. To ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience, registration for Hajj 2024 was conducted through the smart application provided by the Awqaf UAE Authority from December 5, 2023, to December 21, 2023. After the registration period, applicants proceed to the verification and approval stage.
Updating and Monitoring Hajj Application from the UAE in 2024
Applicants can track the status of their applications by logging into the General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments website using their digital identity. They can update and monitor the status of their applications, add companions, family members, or guardians, ensuring that the application is up-to-date and all requirements are fulfilled.
Obtaining Hajj Permit for Emiratis in 2024
For Emirati citizens, no entry visa to Saudi Arabia is required for Hajj, but obtaining an official Hajj permit is necessary. These permits are issued after the approval and sorting of applications and are essential to perform the rituals of Hajj. Some entities in the UAE offer a “Fast Hajj” option, allowing pilgrims direct access to Mecca before and after completing the rituals.
Guidelines and Tips for Pilgrims: Preparation and Medical Checkups
Preparation for Hajj requires attention to important matters; pilgrims must ensure they are physically and mentally prepared for this journey. Here are some essential tips and preparatory steps:
Medical Vaccinations: It is essential for pilgrims to obtain necessary vaccinations before travel, including seasonal influenza vaccines, quadrivalent meningococcal vaccines, and pneumococcal vaccines. Pilgrims are advised to visit the Health Authority for Hajj in the UAE for detailed information.
Medical Checkups: Pilgrims are advised to undergo comprehensive medical examinations before the journey to ensure their physical ability to withstand the expected exertion during the rituals. This helps in avoiding any potential health complications.
Spiritual and Physical Preparation: Pilgrims are encouraged to prepare spiritually and physically for Hajj. Reading and understanding the rituals of Hajj are advised, as well as maintaining good physical fitness to endure the physical challenges during the journey.
Climate Preparation: Due to the slight climate difference in Saudi Arabia compared to the UAE, pilgrims are advised to prepare with appropriate clothing for the hot and dry weather, especially during daytime.
Free Hajj for Emirati Citizens
Some charitable organizations in the UAE, such as the Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation, the Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan Charitable and Humanitarian Foundation, and the Abu Dhabi Rehabilitation Center, offer free Hajj programs for specific categories of citizens, including the elderly, widows, divorcees, and those whose applications were rejected in the previous year.
Conditions for Availing Free Hajj
To qualify for free Hajj programs in the UAE, applicants must meet certain conditions, such as:
- Being under the age of 40.
- Not having performed Hajj before.
- Inability to afford the expenses of Hajj.
- Having an income not exceeding 25,000 Emirati Dirhams.
- Being a citizen of the UAE.
Applying for Free Hajj from the UAE
Eligible individuals can submit their applications through the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs, UAE embassies abroad, or relevant organizations. Applications are evaluated according to the specified conditions and criteria.
In addition to free Hajj, some campaigns offer flexible options for citizens who may require special accommodations due to health or personal circumstances.
Traveling to Saudi Arabia from the UAE
When planning Hajj from the UAE, it is essential to consider available travel options to reach Saudi Arabia and perform the pilgrimage, whether by air or land.
Air Travel from the UAE
Air travel to the Kingdom is typically through one of the following major airports:
- King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah.
- Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Medina.
Land Travel from the UAE
For expatriates and citizens of GCC countries residing in the UAE, entry into Saudi Arabia can be done by land as part of an organized tourist group through an authorized travel agency. The agency is responsible for providing detailed information on transportation and logistical arrangements within Saudi Arabia.
