Over 6,200 Emiratis prepare for Hajj pilgrimage under organised entry system
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About 6,230 Emiratis will travel to Saudi Arabia this month to perform the annual Hajj pilgrimage, with authorities enforcing stricter entry rules to manage crowd numbers.
The pilgrimage is expected to take place between May 25 and 30, as regional tensions linked to the Iran war continue. Saudi officials said only those holding valid Hajj permits and visas will be allowed to enter holy sites.
Visit visa holders are barred from entering or remaining in Makkah from April 18 until mid-June, officials said.
Anyone attempting to perform Hajj without the required permit faces a fine of up to 20,000 Saudi riyals ($5,333), deportation and a ban on re-entering the kingdom for up to 10 years.
The measures are intended to regulate pilgrim numbers after more than two million people gathered in Makkah last year. Authorities said permit systems help prevent overcrowding and reduce the risk of incidents such as fatal crushes.
Of the total, 6,228 Emirati citizens have been granted permission to perform Hajj this year. UAE authorities and travel operators have urged pilgrims to prepare in advance.
The Ministry of Health and Prevention advised travellers to complete required vaccinations and follow medical guidance before and during the pilgrimage. Pilgrims can visit healthcare centres across the country for medical checks to ensure they are fit for the journey, particularly the elderly, pregnant women and those with chronic conditions.
“All types of meningococcal vaccine and the updated seasonal influenza vaccine should be taken 10 days before travel … ensure your vaccinations are recorded in the international vaccination card”, the ministry said on X.
The pneumococcal vaccine is also recommended for those aged over 65 and people with chronic illnesses. Pilgrims in these groups are advised to carry sufficient medication, along with medical reports and to follow prescribed treatment plans.
The ministry also urged pilgrims to maintain personal hygiene, wear masks in crowded areas, stay hydrated and avoid prolonged exposure to the sun to reduce the risk of heat exhaustion.
Pilgrims are advised to prepare a first aid kit including hand sanitisers, pain relief medication, moisturising cream, tissues, scissors, face masks and creams for burns or allergies. Authorities also recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and following official instructions in crowded areas.