Qatar opens Hajj 2026 registration with new rules, key dates, and online payment; what pilgrims must know

The Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs (Awqaf) has launched early registration for Hajj 1447 AH (2026), implementing stricter eligibility criteria, financial deposits, and streamlined digital processes. Running from October 1 to 31, 2025, the move aims to ensure timely coordination with Saudi authorities and deliver improved services to Qatar’s 4,400 allotted pilgrims.

Early launch of Hajj 1447 registration

The Ministry of Endowments (Awqaf), through its Department of Hajj and Umrah Affairs, officially announced that registration for the 1447 AH Hajj season (2026) will be open from October 1 to October 31, 2025, through its online portal: hajj.gov.qa.

This early rollout is based on the successful outcomes of the previous two Hajj seasons, where early planning enabled swift contract finalization and enhanced services for pilgrims. Speaking at a press conference, Ali bin Sultan Al Misifri, Director of the Department of Hajj and Umrah Affairs, said this early registration aligns with Saudi Arabia’s updated preparation timelines and is aimed at improving overall pilgrim experience.

He highlighted that the Saudi Department of Hajj and Umrah has already initiated key preparatory steps for the season, including:

• Allocation of national quotas
• Contracting for accommodation, catering, and transport
• Activation of the online registration platform
• Deadlines for submitting names of accredited Hajj operators

These steps are crucial for obtaining necessary official permits and ensuring smooth coordination.


Eligibility criteria and health requirements for Hajj

Qatar's quota for Hajj 1447 is set at 4,400 pilgrims, and eligibility requirements this year are more specific, with a heavy emphasis on health and residency criteria.

For Qatari citizens:

• Must be 18 years or older
• Can register up to three guides per pilgrim in their application
  

For GCC citizens and long-term residents in Qatar:

• Must be at least 45 years old
• Must not have performed Hajj before
• Must have resided continuously in Qatar for at least 15 years
• Can register only one guide
• Names of guides must be included in the application form to avoid administrative issues
  

In addition to these, two new mandatory requirements have been introduced this year:

Health Certificate: Every applicant must obtain a certificate from a Primary Health Care Center in Qatar confirming they are medically fit for the pilgrimage.

Financial Deposit: A QR10,000 deposit is now required during registration. This acts as a security amount and will go toward financing the applicant’s Hajj expenses.

Dr. Abdulsalam Ali Al Qahtani, representative from the Ministry of Public Health on the Qatari Hajj Mission, stated that all health criteria are aligned with those set by Saudi Arabia. Full details are available on the Awqaf portal.


Hajj registration process and operator engagement

To streamline the process and ensure user accessibility, the Ministry has launched several digital enhancements:

• A new instructional video will guide applicants through registration, selecting operators, signing contracts, and making online payments.
• This video will be published on Awqaf's social media channels to assist all users.

Payment mechanisms have also been upgraded. Pilgrims can now pay for the pilgrimage online based on the package prices set by each Hajj operator, varying by level of service and amenities offered.

A total of 27 licensed Hajj operators will facilitate services this year. Applicants are encouraged to contact the Department of Hajj and Umrah Affairs directly for any inquiries or to file complaints via the dedicated hotline (132).


Post Hajj registration and approvals timeline

Once the registration window closes on October 31, 2025, an electronic sorting process will be conducted immediately. This will determine the final list of successful applicants, who will receive official approval notifications by mid-November.

This timeline is designed to provide sufficient preparation time for accredited Hajj operators to finalize arrangements and deliver optimal services.

Ali Al Misifri emphasized that these early and detailed preparations are part of Awqaf’s mission to ensure pilgrims can perform the rites in a spiritual, organized, and comfortable environment, in close collaboration with Saudi authorities.