Are you ready to fulfill the fifth pillar of Islam and embark on the sacred journey of Hajj? While performing Hajj is a once-in-a-lifetime obligation for those who are able, and many choose to experience this spiritual blessing multiple times if their health and finances permit. Are you planning to make it happen this year?
Keep in mind that proper planning and timely application are crucial for your pilgrimage. Many countries close their Hajj applications about six months before the pilgrimage begins. In Saudi Arabia, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah processes Hajj visas annually between mid-Shawwal and the 25th of Dhul-Qa’dah.
To help you navigate this journey, we’ve prepared the ultimate guide to Hajj in 2025 from Dubai for first-time pilgrims.
Let’s get started!
The Sacred Journey of Hajj – Fulfilling the Fifth Pillar of Islam
Hajj, the fifth pillar of Islam, is a profound and sacred journey that every Muslim man and woman of means is called to undertake at least once in their lifetime. This holy pilgrimage is not just a physical act but a complete submission to Allah—an offering of your heart, body, and soul. It’s a journey that unites the Muslim Ummah, fostering connection and harmony in the name of the Almighty.
At the heart of Hajj lies the powerful ritual of circling the Holy Kaaba seven times with a pure heart and sincere intention, an act symbolizing devotion and unity.
Other essential rituals include walking or running between the hills of Safa and Marwah, spending sacred moments in Mina, standing in prayer at Mount Arafat, and reflecting under the stars in Muzdalifah. On the day of Eid, pilgrims stone the devil, sacrifice animals as an act of devotion, and finally, complete their journey with a farewell Tawaf around the Kaaba.
For a step-by-step understanding, explore the guides provided by Hajj tour operators in Dubai or attend learning workshops at local religious institutions to prepare for this once-in-a-lifetime spiritual experience.
Hajj Permit Process for UAE Citizens: What You Need to Know for 2025
If you’re a UAE citizen, you’re blessed with the ease of traveling to Saudi Arabia for Umrah or other purposes without needing a visa. However, for Hajj, Dubai citizens must obtain a special Hajj permit to enter the holy cities of Mecca and Medina. It’s crucial to apply early to increase your chances of securing this permit.
Like other countries, the UAE receives an allocated Hajj quota to ensure a smooth and organized pilgrimage. For instance, in 2025, Dubai is allowed to send 6,228 citizens for Hajj. Early applications have a much higher success rate, so don’t delay—apply as soon as possible to secure your spot.
When you go through licensed Hajj operators, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah in Saudi Arabia will issue your Hajj visa. Keep in mind that this special visa grants access only to Jeddah, Mecca, and Medina, ensuring your focus remains on the sacred journey. It does not permit visits to other cities within the Kingdom.
Prepare wisely and take the necessary steps to embark on this life-changing spiritual journey with peace and readiness.
How to Apply for Hajj from Dubai
If you are a UAE citizen planning to perform Hajj, you must apply for a Hajj permit through the General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments (Awqaf). This authority also issues Nusuk cards to pilgrims.
Currently, Dubai no longer issues Hajj permits to non-citizens, reserving its quota exclusively for UAE nationals. If you are an expatriate, you must obtain your Hajj permit from your country of origin.
However, your travel agent in Dubai can assist with obtaining your Hajj visa. It’s important to start the application process early, especially for Indian residents applying from Dubai, as most countries close their Hajj applications six months before the pilgrimage begins.
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah in Saudi Arabia only issues Hajj visas through licensed operators. Applications submitted without going through these approved operators will not be accepted.
To apply, licensed operators will require the following documents:
- Original passport with at least six months of validity (three months if you’re on a UAE residence visa).
- A copy of your passport.
- Emirates ID.
- Passport-sized photos with a white background.
- For women under 45, a mahram letter is mandatory. Women over 45 will also need a no-objection letter from their husband, son, or brother.
Plan ahead, gather your documents, and rely on trusted operators to ensure a smooth and successful Hajj application process.
Eligibility Criteria
The criteria for Hajj can vary from year to year. For 2025, the requirements include:
- The applicant must be a Muslim.
- They must be at least 12 years old.
- They must not have performed Hajj within the past five years.
Choosing the Best Travel Option for Your Hajj Journey: Air vs. Road
When planning your journey to the holy sites, you can choose between two main travel modes: by air or by road. As a general rule, air travel tends to be more expensive than traveling by car or bus from Dubai.
However, besides your budget, you should also factor in travel time, which is significantly longer for road trips.
For air travel, you have two arrival options:
- King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah.
- Prince Muhammad Bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Madina.
If you prefer traveling by road, you can hire Hajj services from Dubai tailored for Indian pilgrims, which often include bus trips. These bus journeys typically take around 40 hours.
Alternatively, you can drive to Saudi Arabia, but it’s important to note that you cannot travel by car alone—you must be accompanied by a licensed tour operator to enter the Kingdom for Hajj.
Choose the option that best suits your needs, balancing cost, convenience, and travel time.
Summing It Up
Hajj is a crucial obligation for every Muslim who has the means to perform it. If you’re planning to go for Hajj, make sure to apply early, as most governments close Hajj applications six months before the pilgrimage season. Dubai, like other countries, has a set quota from the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, and you must apply through registered tour operators for a smooth process.
Expats in Dubai can seek the help of licensed travel operators to obtain a special Hajj visa, while local citizens apply through the General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments.
You can choose to travel by road or air, depending on your budget and preferences, but you must travel with a licensed operator.