Early registration for Hajj 1447 AH (2026) begins with stricter eligibility, health checks, and financial deposits for 4,400 pilgrims
Qatar’s Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs (Awqaf) has officially opened early registration for Hajj 1447 AH (2026) from October 1 to October 31, 2025, through its online portal hajj.gov.qa. The early rollout introduces new rules, including stricter eligibility criteria, mandatory health certificates, and a QR10,000 financial deposit, aiming to streamline coordination with Saudi authorities and improve services for the 4,400 pilgrims allocated to Qatar, reported timesofindia.indiatimes.com.
Ali bin Sultan Al Misifri, Director of the Department of Hajj and Umrah Affairs, highlighted that early registration enables quick contract finalization for accommodation, transport, and catering, while ensuring permits and approvals are in place. Key preparatory steps from Saudi Arabia include allocation of national quotas, activation of the online platform, and deadlines for accredited Hajj operators to submit pilgrim names.
The early launch ensures timely planning, enhanced digital services, and smooth coordination with Saudi authorities for pilgrims from Qatar and GCC countries
Eligibility criteria vary by status:
- Qatari citizens: 18 years or older, can register up to three guides.
- GCC citizens and long-term residents: 45 years or older, must not have performed Hajj before, 15+ years of residency, one guide allowed.
Applicants must provide a health certificate from a Primary Health Care Center in Qatar confirming medical fitness and pay a QR10,000 deposit during registration to cover pilgrimage costs.
To simplify the process, Awqaf has launched digital enhancements, including instructional videos guiding applicants through registration, operator selection, contract signing, and online payment. Payments can now be made online based on package prices set by each of the 27 licensed Hajj operators. Pilgrims can also contact the Department or the dedicated hotline (132) for support.
Once registration closes on October 31, 2025, an electronic sorting process will determine the final list of successful applicants, who will receive official approval notifications by mid-November. The timeline allows operators sufficient time to prepare for Hajj 2026 and ensures a spiritual, organized, and comfortable pilgrimage experience.
