Doha, September 19 (QNA) - Electronic registration for those wishing to perform the Hajj pilgrimage for the year 1448 AH begins tomorrow, Sunday, via the official Hajj portal (hajj.gov.qa) and will continue through Oct. 20.
The Department of Hajj and Umrah Affairs at the Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs (Awqaf) stated that the opening of registration is part of its early preparations for the upcoming Hajj season. This initiative aims to enable authorized Hajj campaigns to finalize their operational and contractual arrangements and to enhance the quality of services provided to pilgrims from the State of Qatar.
In a statement issued today, the Department added that registration is open to Qatari citizens aged 18 and older, with the option to include up to three companions in a single application. For residents and citizens of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, applicants must be at least 45 years old, must not have previously performed Hajj, and must have resided continuously in Qatar for at least 15 years; only one companion may be added in these cases. Applicants are reminded of the necessity to include companions in the primary application at the time of initial registration.
The Department emphasized that obtaining a certificate of medical fitness is a mandatory requirement for registration, in accordance with the regulations approved by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. Medical examinations are available at all health centers across the country, and results are linked electronically to the registration system.
The Department of Hajj and Umrah Affairs noted that the electronic screening phase will commence immediately after the registration period ends, with acceptance notifications sent via text message to eligible applicants starting at the end of October. The electronic portal provides a unified platform for selecting approved Hajj campaigns, finalizing contracts, and making electronic payments; completing the procedures requires an upfront payment of 10,000 Qatari Riyals -deductible from the final Hajj cost - to ensure the applicants' serious intent, while a hotline (132) has been designated for inquiries and feedback. (QNA)