UAE Faces Hajj Oversubscription for 2026

High Interest in UAE's 2026 Hajj – Oversubscription Compared to Official Quota

In the United Arab Emirates, the interest in Hajj pilgrimage is immense once again. For the 2026 season, the General Authority for Islamic Affairs and Endowments and Zakat announced that by the end of the registration period on October 9, 2025, over 72,000 applications were received through the official app and website. This number far exceeds the quota of 6,228 people set by Saudi Arabia, which represents the maximum number of officially designated pilgrims from the UAE for the next Hajj period.

The application process has concluded, and selection is ongoing

The authority emphasized that during the selection process, they strictly adhere to Cabinet Decision No. 32 of 2018, which details the Hajj and Umrah system in the UAE. Preliminary approval is given to applicants who meet all the required conditions, and those who have not yet been on the pilgrimage or have advantages in terms of health, age, or other factors may be given priority.

Approved applicants will be notified via registered phone numbers, and it is important that those who receive a message complete the required administrative steps within the specified deadlines, or they may lose their eligibility.

Official organization, high-level preparations

Every year, UAE authorities place great emphasis on ensuring a smooth, safe, and dignified Hajj experience for pilgrims. Organizing the pilgrimage is not just a logistical challenge, but a religious and social event of great importance. Authorized organizations and service providers have already begun planning before the selection to ensure the availability of transportation, healthcare, accommodation, and related administrative and religious support on time.

The authority also aims to ensure that all approved pilgrims receive their Hajj permits in time, and that feedback and suggestions from both providers and travelers are incorporated into the organization. To this end, the authority maintains constant communication with relevant stakeholders, including Saudi Arabian authorities.

The oversubscription and its consequences

The 72,000 applications indicate that interest in Hajj in the UAE is continually growing, reflecting both religious commitment and the fact that a large portion of the population can afford this important and costly journey.

However, due to the limited quota, many will miss out, so those who are not approved should prepare for the next year and keep an eye on authority announcements regarding possible additional quotas or other opportunities.

Due to oversubscription, it is crucial that selected individuals do not miss any deadlines and follow instructions precisely. In some years, technical or administrative obstacles have complicated the process of issuing permits, and the authority is now acting proactively to avoid these.

Digitization and innovations in the application system

The UAE exemplifies the use of digital opportunities. This year, applicants could register through a mobile app and web interface, which is not only faster but also safer. According to the authority, data protection and transparency are prioritized, ensuring that application processing takes place in a precise and fair system.

In the future, it is expected that artificial intelligence will assist in selection, particularly in pre-screening eligibility and speeding up the administrative issuance of permits.

What awaits approved pilgrims?

Those who receive preliminary approval will begin preparing physically, mentally, and logistically. The authority provides detailed information about necessary vaccinations, religious education, details of group travel, and options provided by designated service providers. Additionally, payment for the trip costs is tied to specific deadlines.

Passport renewal, special insurance, health checks, and precise knowledge of the pilgrimage rules may be required. These are generally provided through mandatory briefing seminars.

Summary

The surge in applications for the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage demonstrates that the UAE population continues to actively practice their faith and take advantage of the officially organized Hajj opportunity. However, the quota is limited, allowing only a smaller group to travel to one of the year’s most important religious events.

The authority’s goal is to ensure that all 6,228 selected individuals participate in the sacred pilgrimage with the greatest support and security, adhering to regulations and deadlines. With digitalization and efficient organization, the UAE once again sets an example of how modern tools can support a centuries-old religious tradition.

(Source: General Authority for Islamic Affairs and Endowments and Zakat announcement.)