Updates on Hajj and Umrah Regulations in the UAE

The General Authority for Islamic Affairs, Awqaf and Zakat (GAIAAWZ) has announced new updates on Hajj and Umrah System.
These updates introduce new provisions related to:

• Organizing Hajj and Umrah trips.
• Licensing procedures
• Penalties for violations committed by individuals, groups, or related offices.

Key objectives of the updates:

• Regulating Hajj and Umrah affairs: The amendments aim to streamline the organization and management of Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages.

• Establishing clear licensing guidelines to grant Hajj and Umrah licenses operators, ensuring compliance with relevant regulations and standards.

• Enhancing oversight by GAIAAWZ: The authority’s role in overseeing Hajj and Umrah activities is reinforced through these amendments.

Notable changes introduced:

• Administrative fines:
  A significant administrative fine of 50,000 dirhams will be imposed on any individual or entity that utilizes the services and facilities designated for the UAE’s Hajj Affairs Office in the holy sites or during the pilgrimage without obtaining prior authorization from GAIAAWZ.

• Mandatory licensing for Hajj and Umrah organizers:
  Now, obtaining a license from GAIAAWZ is mandatory for any individual or entity seeking to organize Hajj, Umrah, or Hajj on behalf of others (Hajj al-Badl) or advertise such services.

• Unlicensed Hajj and Umrah activities:
  Receiving Hajj or Umrah applications, collecting donations for Hajj or Umrah without a license from GAIAAWZ is strictly prohibited.

The UAE’s Hajj Affairs Office plays a crucial role during Hajj season:

• Ensuring quality services for UAE pilgrims:
  The office oversees the quality of services provided to UAE pilgrims throughout the Hajj pilgrimage.

• Liaison with Saudi Arabian authorities:
  It maintains effective communication with the relevant authorities in Saudi Arabia regarding matters related to UAE pilgrims during the Hajj season.

During the visit, the President of the State will discuss with Yoon Suk-Yul, President of the Republic of Korea, friendly relations and the development of various aspects of joint work in order to enhance cooperation in the fields of trade, investment, energy and technology,… pic.twitter.com/FZrs4nGppX

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• Monitoring performance of Hajj campaign providers:
  The office closely monitors the performance of companies contracted to manage Hajj campaign accommodations in the holy sites.

The introduced updates on Hajj and Umrah System will enhance the organization, transparency, and accountability of Hajj and Umrah activities in the UAE.
They will also contribute to a smoother and more fulfilling pilgrimage experience for UAE pilgrims.

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