Each year, millions of Muslims embark on the sacred Hajj pilgrimage, a six-day spiritual journey in Mecca held annually in Dhu al-Hijjah, the twelfth month of the Islamic calendar. As preparations intensify for the 1447 AH (2026) Hajj season, Qatar’s Ministry of Awqaf has extended its registration deadline to November 15, 2025, ensuring that all eligible pilgrims have the opportunity to complete the process within the Kingdom’s quota system.
Ministry responds to strong public demand
The Ministry of Endowments (Awqaf) and Islamic Affairs, through its Hajj and Umrah Affairs Department, has announced an extension for Hajj registration for the 1447 AH season until Saturday, November 15, 2025. The decision follows an overwhelming public response to the early registration drive launched in early October and aims to allow more citizens to complete the process smoothly.Registration will continue exclusively via the Ministry’s official portal, until the new deadline. The ministry emphasized that the extension reflects its commitment to facilitating participation for all eligible Qatari pilgrims wishing to perform Hajj this year.
Reflecting strong public interest and confidence
Ali bin Sultan Al Misifri, Director of the Hajj and Umrah Affairs Department, explained that the decision to extend registration came in direct response to the large number of calls and applications received since the registration campaign began. He noted that the strong turnout demonstrates both the eagerness of Qatar’s citizens to fulfill the fifth pillar of Islam and their continued confidence in the Qatari Hajj Mission’s services and organization, which have earned an excellent reputation over the years.According to Al Misifri, the Ministry has consistently ensured that each Hajj season is organized with the highest standards of service, safety, and coordination. He highlighted that the arrangements for the 1447 AH season reaffirm the Ministry’s mission of serving Qatari pilgrims and ensuring a safe and spiritually fulfilling journey.
Mandatory medical certificate requirement
The Ministry reminded all applicants that obtaining a medical fitness certificate remains a prerequisite for online registration. This certificate—issued by accredited health centers across Qatar—is mandatory, and no applicant will be able to register without it.Al Misifri clarified that this requirement is in line with the health and safety regulations set by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, which aims to ensure that all pilgrims are physically capable of performing the rituals of Hajj safely. The Qatari authorities have worked closely with their Saudi counterparts to align these medical and procedural requirements ahead of the upcoming season.
Payment and campaign details
Al Misifri also clarified that the initial payment of QR10,000 made through the electronic system when selecting a campaign is not a registration fee, but rather an advance payment deducted from the total Hajj cost. The final amount depends on the type and level of services offered by each campaign, including accommodation, transportation, and meals.This transparent payment process, he said, ensures that every pilgrim is aware of what their package entails and that the cost structure remains fair and consistent across all licensed Hajj operators.
Licensed campaigns and pilgrim quota
For the 1447 AH season, a total of 27 Hajj campaigns have been officially licensed and approved by the Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs. Each campaign is subject to strict compliance standards covering accommodation, transport, health services, and logistical support.Qatar’s official quota for Hajj this year is 4,400 pilgrims, a number determined in coordination with the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah in Saudi Arabia. Both sides have jointly developed and approved the electronic route and scheduling procedures to streamline travel and facilitate the pilgrims’ journey.
Coordination between Qatar and Saudi Arabia
Al Misifri emphasized that the collaboration between the two ministries reflects a shared goal of ensuring an efficient and well-organized pilgrimage. These joint efforts include synchronization of travel procedures, the verification of pilgrims’ eligibility, and the use of digital systems to manage applications and approvals.He also encouraged all prospective pilgrims to reach out directly to the Department of Hajj and Umrah Affairs for inquiries or complaints through the dedicated hotline (132), reaffirming that the Ministry is committed to addressing public needs transparently and efficiently.
