TL;DR
- The UAE has updated its
Hajj campaign approval system to improve service and accountability. - Only accredited operators will be allowed to organize Hajj under the Saudi quota.
- India will also offer a Short Hajj Package for 10,000 pilgrims, aimed at working professionals.
Performing Hajj is a once-in-a-lifetime journey. But if you’re planning to go from the UAE in 2026, the process has changed and it’s important to get it right. The UAE has introduced a new approval system for Hajj campaign operators. This means not all travel agencies will qualify. Only those who meet strict criteria will be allowed to organize Hajj trips.The update comes after years of complaints about poor service and unclear planning. Authorities want to make sure pilgrims get a safer, more organized experience. So, before you register, take a moment to understand what’s new and how it affects you.
What’s new in the UAE’s Hajj approval system?
1. Stricter standards for campaign approvalOperators must now prove they can offer:
- Consistent service quality
- Strong financial management
- Reliable administration
- A solid performance record during the 2025 season
- If they can’t meet these, they won’t be approved.
Tip: Don’t sign up with a campaign unless it’s officially listed by the General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Zakat.2. Accountability now built into the processCampaigns will be tracked digitally and reviewed after Hajj. This helps authorities see who delivered and who didn’t. Expect digital check-ins, performance ratings, and follow-up surveys.3. Packages must meet real needsCampaigns that offer tailored packages for seniors, families, or budget travelers are prioritized. Many organizers say flexible packages help meet the needs of different groups.4. Matching Saudi Arabia’s quota systemEvery country is given a fixed Hajj quota by Saudi Arabia. The UAE’s process now mirrors this. Only campaigns that pass the local screening will get access to that quota.Reminder: If you’re not on the list via an approved campaign, you may not be allowed to go.5. Timelines and official procedures are tighterMiss a step or a deadline, and your campaign may lose its approval. The goal is to avoid the chaos some pilgrims faced in earlier years. Keep an eye on official announcements, they’ll lay out the full process and dates.
Why these changes matter
Hajj is one of the most important journeys in a Muslim’s life. But in recent years, some UAE pilgrims faced delays, unclear communication, or lack of proper care. The government wants to fix that by making sure only reliable campaigns get approved.The new system isn’t just about paperwork, it’s meant to make the Hajj experience smoother and safer for everyone.
India introduces Short Hajj Package for working pilgrims
If you’re applying through India’s Haj Committee, there’s a new option: a 20-day Short Hajj Package designed for people who can’t take extended time off.The Minority Affairs Ministry confirmed it in early July 2025, and the Haj Committee of India included it in their official Haj 2026 Policy.Here’s how it works:
- Open to 10,000 pilgrims out of India’s total quota of 175,025
- Stay limited to 20 days in Saudi Arabia
- Selection will happen through Qurrah, the random digital draw system
- Seats will be allocated based on availability under this special scheme
This could be a good option for working professionals or those with time constraints.
What You Can Do Now
- Start looking at operators who performed well in 2025
- Follow official UAE Hajj updates on social platforms
- Collect the documents you’ll likely need for registration
- Ask friends or family who went last year for recommendations
FAQs
- 1. Can I register for Hajj 2026 through any travel agency in the UAE?
No. Only agencies approved under the new UAE system are allowed to organize Hajj trips. Make sure the campaign you choose is officially accredited.
- 2. What does “tailored packages” mean in the new system?
It refers to options designed for different types of pilgrims, like affordable plans for budget travelers, or easier schedules for seniors.
- 3. How do I know if a Hajj campaign is approved?
The General Authority of Islamic Affairs usually publishes a list of accredited campaigns before registration opens. Check their official channels.
