UAE Hajj 2026 Registration Opens September 24 for Emiratis
The General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments (Awqaf) in the United Arab Emirates has announced the official registration dates for citizens wishing to perform Hajj in the 2026 season. Registration will open on September 24, 2025, and will remain available until October 9, 2025.
This early announcement gives citizens more time to prepare, ensures a smooth application process, and highlights the UAE’s commitment to making Hajj accessible, fair, and efficient for all first-time pilgrims.
Early Registration for Hajj 2026 in the UAE
Hajj is one of the most important religious obligations for Muslims around the world. Every year, millions of pilgrims travel to Makkah in Saudi Arabia to perform the sacred journey.
In the UAE, the responsibility for organizing Hajj applications lies with the General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments (Awqaf). For the Hajj season of 2026, the authority has confirmed that online registration will begin on September 24, 2025, and will close on October 9, 2025.
All applications must be submitted through Awqaf’s official website or via its smart application, ensuring a digital and streamlined process.
By launching the registration window almost a year in advance, the UAE aims to give citizens more time to plan, prepare, and secure their place on this spiritual journey.
Why the UAE Announced Hajj Registration Early
The early opening of the Hajj registration process is part of a bigger effort to make the pilgrimage smoother for citizens. Authorities explained that the goal is to:
- Improve efficiency in handling applications.
- Reduce last-minute stress for applicants and operators.
- Streamline services to ensure all approved pilgrims are well-supported.
- Guarantee fair access for first-time applicants.
For many Muslims in the UAE, Hajj is a once-in-a-lifetime journey. By prioritizing first-time pilgrims, Awqaf is ensuring that as many Emiratis as possible get the chance to perform the pilgrimage.
Who Can Apply for Hajj 2026 in the UAE?
The registration is open to Emirati citizens who meet the eligibility requirements. Awqaf has placed special focus on encouraging first-time pilgrims to apply.
This is because the pilgrimage has limited quotas assigned by Saudi authorities to each country. To make the system fair, the UAE is making sure that those who have never performed Hajj before will get priority during the 2026 season.
Applicants will need to:
- Be Emirati citizens.
- Meet basic health and age requirements set by Saudi authorities.
- Submit applications online through the official channels.
This ensures the process remains transparent, accessible, and aligned with both UAE and Saudi Hajj regulations.
How to Register for Hajj 2026
The registration process has been designed to be straightforward and user-friendly. Emirati citizens can complete their applications in just a few steps:
- Visit Awqaf’s official website or download the smart app.
- Create an account or log in using Emirates ID details.
- Fill in the application form, including personal and health information.
- Upload required documents (such as Emirates ID and passport).
- Submit the application before the deadline on October 9, 2025.
Once submitted, applications will be reviewed by the authority. Approved applicants will be notified and guided on the next steps, including choosing an accredited Hajj operator.
Streamlined Services and Accredited Operators
In addition to early registration, Awqaf has also announced updates to the system that governs Hajj operators. Operators who provide travel, accommodation, and support services for pilgrims will go through a streamlined accreditation process.
This ensures that only high-quality, reliable operators are authorized to handle Hajj groups. Pilgrims will benefit from:
- Safer travel arrangements
- Better accommodation options in Makkah and Madinah
- Reliable guides and support staff throughout the journey
- Clear communication channels for assistance during Hajj
By accrediting trusted operators, the UAE is working to guarantee that every pilgrim has a safe, smooth, and spiritually fulfilling Hajj experience.
The UAE’s Commitment to Supporting Pilgrims
The UAE leadership has always emphasized the importance of making Hajj and Umrah accessible to its citizens. Each year, thousands of Emiratis perform Hajj under the supervision and guidance of Awqaf.
For the 2026 season, this early announcement reflects:
- The country’s strong organizational planning
- A focus on citizen wellbeing
- A deep respect for the significance of Hajj in Islam
Awqaf has also highlighted that its teams will be available to assist applicants during the registration period, ensuring that no citizen faces difficulties in completing the process.
Digital Transformation of the Hajj Application Process
Another highlight of this announcement is the digital-first approach. By allowing applications exclusively through the official website and smart app, Awqaf ensures:
- Faster application processing
- Reduced paperwork
- Clear and transparent records
- Easier communication with applicants
This approach also makes the system more secure and allows applicants to check their application status online at any time.
Timeline for Hajj 2026 Registration
To help applicants stay on track, here’s the official timeline:
- Registration opens: September 24, 2025
- Registration closes: October 9, 2025
- Application review period: October–November 2025
- Notification of approvals: Expected by end of 2025
- Preparation phase with operators: Early 2026
- Travel for Hajj: June 2026 (dates to be confirmed by Saudi authorities)
This schedule allows nearly a full year for applicants to prepare after submitting their forms.
Why First-Time Pilgrims Are Given Priority
Awqaf’s decision to prioritize first-time pilgrims is rooted in fairness and Islamic tradition. Since Hajj is required only once in a lifetime, the UAE is ensuring that:
- Every eligible Muslim citizen gets the chance to perform it.
- The limited quota from Saudi Arabia is used fairly.
- Citizens who have already performed Hajj give way to others waiting for their opportunity.
This approach reflects the values of equality, justice, and inclusivity in UAE society.
Preparing for Hajj: What Applicants Should Keep in Mind
For those planning to apply, preparation goes beyond filling in the registration form. Pilgrims should:
- Check passport validity (must be valid for at least 6 months after Hajj).
- Ensure health records are up to date and required vaccinations are completed.
- Set aside funds for travel, accommodation, and other expenses.
- Learn about the rituals of Hajj to prepare spiritually.
Awqaf and accredited operators will provide guidance, but early personal preparation helps make the journey smoother.
The Bigger Picture: UAE and Pilgrim Services
The UAE has been steadily improving its systems to serve pilgrims better. Recent years have seen:
- Digital services for applications and status tracking.
- Expanded support for citizens traveling to Saudi Arabia.
- Enhanced training for Hajj operators.
- Focus on health, safety, and comfort for all pilgrims.
The 2026 registration process continues this tradition of innovation and excellence in service.
A Historic Step Toward Efficient Pilgrimage Planning
The announcement of early Hajj registration in the UAE is a significant milestone. By opening applications from September 24 to October 9, 2025, the General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments is giving citizens the time, tools, and support they need to prepare for one of the most important journeys of their lives.
With a clear focus on first-time pilgrims, streamlined services, and digital applications, this move highlights the UAE’s dedication to serving its people with efficiency, fairness, and care.
