Government Authority Opens Digital Registration Window for Emiratis Planning to Perform the Holy Pilgrimage
The UAE has opened registration for Emirati citizens wishing to perform Hajj in 2027, giving eligible applicants an early opportunity to begin preparations for the annual Islamic pilgrimage.
The General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Zakat announced that registration for the 1448 AH Hajj season will run from September 14 to September 25, 2026. Applications can be submitted digitally through the authority’s smart application and official website.
The registration is intended for UAE citizens who have not previously performed Hajj. Applicants are required to complete the process within the announced period before their requests undergo electronic screening and selection.
Registration Opens Through Digital Channels
The authority is encouraging prospective pilgrims to submit their applications through its official digital platforms rather than waiting until the final days of the registration period.
The 12 day registration window is part of the UAE’s early preparations for the 2027 Hajj season. By opening applications well ahead of the pilgrimage, authorities will have additional time to review applications, complete the selection process and organise the services required by approved pilgrims.
Applicants will be assessed through an automated system based on the eligibility requirements and conditions approved under Cabinet Resolution No. 32 of 2018. The electronic selection process is designed to provide a structured and transparent system for determining successful applicants.
Approved Pilgrims to Be Announced in October
The screening process is scheduled to be completed by October 9, when the names of approved pilgrims are expected to be announced.
Successful applicants will then be contacted to complete the remaining procedures and preparations for the pilgrimage. The early announcement is expected to give selected pilgrims sufficient time to arrange the necessary travel and Hajj related requirements before the season begins.
The authority has also stressed the importance of completing applications correctly and within the specified deadline to ensure they can be considered during the selection process.
UAE Plans Early Preparation for Hajj Services
The opening of registration reflects the UAE’s broader approach to preparing for Hajj well in advance. Alongside registration and selection, authorities are working on plans to support pilgrims before their departure and during their stay at the holy sites in Saudi Arabia.
The General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Zakat said preparations would focus on providing efficient services and helping pilgrims complete the required arrangements smoothly.
Experience gained during previous Hajj seasons is also being used to improve the organisation of future pilgrimage services. The authority has highlighted continued reviews of its performance, the development of new approaches and the use of technology as part of efforts to improve the experience for Emirati pilgrims.
The emphasis on early planning is particularly important for Hajj, which involves extensive arrangements involving travel, accommodation, transportation, health requirements and services at the holy sites.
Previous Hajj Season
The UAE’s preparations for Hajj 2027 follow the country’s arrangements for the 2026 pilgrimage season. The UAE approved 6,228 citizens to perform Hajj in 2026, with authorities receiving a significantly larger number of applications than the available places.
The previous season also highlighted the strong demand among Emirati citizens to undertake the pilgrimage and the importance of an organised selection and preparation process.
For 2027, the authority has again opted for an early registration timetable, allowing the selection process to be completed months before the expected Hajj season.
Expected Hajj 2027 Dates
Hajj 2027 is expected to take place in May, with Arafah Day currently anticipated to fall on May 15, 2027, based on astronomical calculations. The final dates will depend on the official Islamic calendar and relevant announcements. Travellers can also explore Saudi Arabia’s Umrah and tourist visa options.
For Emiratis planning to perform Hajj, the immediate priority is to complete registration before the September 25 deadline. Applicants can use the General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Zakat’s official website or smart application to submit their details.
The opening of registration marks the first major step in the UAE’s preparations for Hajj 2027, with the selection process and subsequent arrangements expected to follow in the coming months. The early timetable is intended to give successful pilgrims greater time to prepare for their journey and complete the necessary procedures ahead of the pilgrimage.