The UAE has announced the registration dates for individuals planning to participate in the Islamic pilgrimage Haj in 2024. The General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments has specified that pilgrims can register using its app from December 5 to 21.
In the coming year, Saudi Arabia will welcome pilgrims to Islam’s holiest sites in June, with the first group expected to arrive in May. Typically, pilgrims make the journey through authorized tour operators, and a list of these operators is available on the General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments’ website. These operators offer comprehensive Haj packages that cover visa expenses, accommodations, transportation, and meals.
Last year marked the return to full-capacity Haj pilgrimage for the first time since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic. Saudi Arabia welcomed over 2 million pilgrims in 2023, a significant increase from the 900,000 in the previous year, as the kingdom lifted all Covid-related restrictions.
Haj is one of the five pillars of Islam, and Muslims are obligated to undertake the pilgrimage at least once in their lifetime if they are physically and financially capable.
