- By Supratik Das
- Mon, 22 Sep 2025 01:33 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Qatar Hajj 2026 registration: The Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs (Awqaf) announced the beginning of early registration for the 1447 AH (2026) Hajj season, with new regulations, stricter eligibility criteria, and a completely digitalised application procedure.
The registration window will open on October 1, 2025, at 8 am and will remain open until October 31, 2025, through the official hajj.gov.qa portal. The official quota of Hajj 2026 for Qatar has been fixed at 4,400 pilgrims, as per the Department of Hajj and Umrah Affairs.
Director of the Department of Hajj and Umrah Affairs, Ali bin Sultan Al Misifri, explained that opening up registration one year in advance capitalises on the success of the previous two Hajj seasons. He said early registration enables operators to reserve contracts for accommodation, transport, and catering in coordination with Saudi authorities. The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has already started distributing country quotas, concluding contracts, and readying the electronic platform. Qatar's early registration is consistent with this schedule so that pilgrims are offered the best possible services," Al Misifri said in a press briefing.
Rules And New Health Requirements
For the Hajj 2026 season, Qatar has implemented revised eligibility criteria that include an extra focus on residency and health. Applicants will also be required to pay a QR1 0,000 deposit when registering, which will be deducted against total Hajj expenses.
For Qatari citizens:
• The applicants must be 18 years or older.
• Can include up to three companions on a single application.
For GCC citizens and Qatar long-term residents:
• Should be aged 45 and above.
• Should not have previously performed Hajj.
• Should have lived continuously in Qatar for 15 years.
• May have only one companion.
In addition, a mandatory health certificate from a Primary Health Care Center in Qatar is required for all applicants. Dr. Abdul Salam Al Qahtani, from the Ministry of Public Health, said this measure ensures that pilgrims are physically fit to perform rituals safely.
The Ministry also unveiled a new digital payment system in which pilgrims can pay online as per the package rates provided by the accredited operators. Services this year will be handled by 27 licensed Hajj operators. The Department of Hajj and Umrah hotline (132) will be directly contacted by pilgrims for queries or complaints. An instructional video demonstrating step-by-step registration, signing a contract, and payment will be posted on Awqaf's social media channels.
How To Apply For Hajj 2026?
The applicants should go through the process cautiously to prevent administrative problems.
Procedure to apply for Hajj 2026 in Qatar:
• Go to the website: hajj.gov.qa.
• Complete the online application form with proper details.
• Upload companion details (according to eligibility).
• Provide a medical fitness certificate from a Primary Health Care Center.
• Pay the QR 10,000 deposit online.
• Choose an authorized Hajj operator and compare package deals.
• Establish submission and retain the receipt of acknowledgment.
After October 31, 2025, the Ministry will make an electronic selection. Approved applicants will have official approvals by mid-November 2025. Officials emphasized that this timing provides adequate preparation time for Hajj campaigns to seal contracts and finalize arrangements.