Thinking about taking part in the Hajj pilgrimage next year?
The General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments in the UAE announced that registration for those intending to participate in the Hajj pilgrimage and are travelling from the UAE in mid-2025 to do so, will begin in September 2024.
Dr. Omar Habtoor Al Darei, chairman of the authority and head of the UAE Pilgrims’ Affairs Office, highlighted that this year’s Hajj season was a success with the arrival of over 1 million pilgrims from 88 countries, despite record-high temperatures.
In 2025, Hajj is expected to take place roughly around Wednesday June 4, 2025 (these dates will be confirmed once the moon has been sighted).
To perform the pilgrimage, UAE residents will need a Hajj visa issued by the Saudi government. The requirements for a visa include a valid passport, a recent photo, proof of vaccination against meningococcal disease, and proof of enough funds to cover expenses during your stay in Saudi Arabia.
Most pilgrims prefer to travel with a package offered by a travel agency, which includes airfare, accommodation, and transportation to and from the holy sites in Makkah and Madina.
What exactly is Hajj?
Hajj, an Arabic term that translates to pilgrimage, holds immense significance in Islam as one of the five pillars of the faith. Every able Muslim should take part in the Hajj pilgrimage to Makkah at least once during their lifetime.
The pilgrimage itself typically spans three days, but many choose to extend their stay by an additional week, allowing them to engage in more prayers and explore the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah.
Celebrating Eid Al Adha
Once the pilgrimage is complete, Muslims all over the world celebrate Eid Al Adha.
It is likely we will observe Arafat Day on May 30, 2025, followed by Eid Al Adha on May 31 until June 2 (dates may vary based on moon sightings).
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