Have you ever dreamt of embarking on a sacred pilgrimage of Hajj? This spiritual journey to Makkah, the holiest city in Islam, is a core pillar of the faith and a transformative experience for countless Muslims worldwide.
This comprehensive guide will equip you with all the essential information for Hajj 2024. From the Hajj 2024 dates, and online registration, to what is Nusuk Hajj.
What is Hajj?
Firstly, let’s make sure that we are all aware of what Hajj is.
Hajj or the pilgrimage to Makkah in Saudi Arabia is the holiest act in Islam. It's one of the five pillars of Islam, a mandatory religious duty for Muslims. To undertake Hajj at least once in a lifetime is a requirement for every able-bodied Muslim adult, provided they have the financial means and can ensure the well-being of their family during their absence.
With a clearer understanding of Hajj's significance, let's now explore the estimated dates for Hajj 2024.
Hajj 2024 Dates
The Hajj pilgrimage for 2024 is expected to commence on the evening of Friday, June 14th and conclude on the evening of Wednesday, June 19th.
Note: These are approximate dates based on the Islamic lunar calendar. The exact start and end dates of Hajj depend on religious authorities' sighting of the crescent moon in Saudi Arabia.
Hajj Season
In 2024, the Hajj season will start only 2 days before Eid Al-Adha 2024 which is expected to fall on Sunday 16 June and end on the evening of Thursday 20 June. So, why not make good use of the Eid Al-Adha holidays and book your tickets during this Hajj season? Also Read: Places to visit in Makkah
Hajj Last Date
The last date of Hajj for 2024 is not a fixed date on the Gregorian calendar because it follows the Islamic lunar calendar. However, based on the estimated start date of June 14th, the last date would be around June 19th.
Now that we have a time frame, let's delve into the essential steps of undertaking Hajj.
Hajj Guide
Hajj is a spiritual test and a chance for unity among Muslims worldwide. It's a physically demanding journey filled with historical and religious significance.
Now that we understand the essence of Hajj, let's explore the steps involved:
Preparation and Eligibility:
Financial and Physical Ability: You must be physically and financially capable of undertaking the pilgrimage. This includes having the resources for travel and completing the physically demanding rituals.
Mental and Spiritual Preparation: Hajj is a spiritual test. Prepare yourself by learning about the rituals and their meanings.
Before Your Arrival:
Hajj Registration: Depending on your country, you might need to register for Hajj through a government agency or a licensed Hajj operator.
Hajj Visa: Obtain a valid Hajj visa from the Saudi Arabian authorities.
Vaccination: Ensure you have all the required vaccinations for travel to Saudi Arabia.
Entering Ihram:
Miqat: Once you reach a designated location near Makkah called Miqat, you enter the state of Ihram.
Intention: Declare your intention to perform Hajj.
The Rites of Hajj:
Umrah (Optional): Many pilgrims perform Umrah, a shorter pilgrimage similar to Hajj, before commencing Hajj rituals.
Tawaf: Circumambulate the Kaaba, the cubical structure in the centre of the Grand Mosque, seven times counter-clockwise.
Sa'i: Walk seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwa, commemorating Hagar's search for water for her son Ismail.
Day of Arafah: This is the most significant day of Hajj. Spend the entire day in prayer and supplication on the plains of Arafah.
Wuquf: Stand in prayer and supplication at the Plain of Arafat from noon until sunset.
Muzdalifah: Spend the night at Muzdalifah, praying and collecting pebbles for the stoning ritual.
Mina: Travel to Mina and perform the stoning of the Jamarat, symbolising the rejection of temptation represented by the devil.
Animal Sacrifice (Qurbani): Offer a sacrifice of an animal, commemorating Prophet Abraham's willingness to sacrifice his son.
Head Shaving or Shortening: Men shave their heads, and women shorten their hair.
Farewell Tawaf: Perform a final circumambulation of the Kaaba before departing Makkah.
Hajj Registration online
Nusuk Hajj, overseen by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, simplifies the Hajj registration process through its "permits" service.
Hajj groups, often called convoys, can register through the Nusuk Hajj platform. This establishes their presence in the system. Registered convoys can then electronically issue Hajj permits to their members. These permits serve as official documentation for each pilgrim undertaking Hajj.
Regulators can easily verify the validity of issued permits through the Nusuk Hajj system. This helps ensure the legitimacy of pilgrims and prevents fraudulent practices.
What is Nusuk Hajj?
Nusuk Hajj is a platform designed specifically for pilgrims undertaking the Hajj pilgrimage. Overseen by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah in Saudi Arabia, it caters to both international and local pilgrims.
Nusuk Hajj caters to all pilgrims, including Saudi residents undertaking the local Hajj. They offer dedicated packages to make the local Hajj experience smooth and fulfilling.
International (External) Hajj
External Hajj, or just Hajj for the rest of the world, is also present in the variety of options that Nusuk Hajj provides, ensuring you can tailor your pilgrimage experience to your specific needs and preferences. From diverse package features to a range of accommodation choices, Nusuk Hajj prioritises understanding the unique requirements of each pilgrim.
Hajj visa
For foreigners attending the Hajj, a Hajj visa is mandatory. Here's a breakdown of the Hajj visa:
Eligibility:
Applicants must be at least 18 years old and Muslim.
For children, proof of vaccination for meningitis, polio and ACYW135 is required
Women over 45 can perform Hajj without a male guardian (Mahram) if they travel with a group and have permission from their husband or father (proof required).
Children under 18 must apply with a parent or legal guardian.
Application Process:
Individual applications are not accepted. Applications are submitted through travel agents authorised by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj & Umrah.
GCC citizens, who don't typically need visas for Saudi Arabia, still require a separate Hajj permit to participate.
Required Documents:
Completed application form (obtained from authorised travel agent)
Valid passport (at least 6-months validity from application date)
Recent passport-size photo (specific requirements outlined)
Vaccination certificate (Meningococcal Meningitis, potentially others based on your situation)
Proof of relationship (marriage/birth certificate) for women and children travelling with a Mahram
No-objection letter (for women over 45 travelling without a Mahram)
Confirmed return flight ticket
Note: Processing times are typically around 5 days. Apply early to avoid delays. As Hajj visas cannot be extended, ensure your departure coincides with your visa expiry.
FAQS:
Q. When is Hajj 2024?
Hajj 2024 is set to start on the evening of Friday, June 14th and conclude on the evening of Wednesday, June 19th.
Q. When is the last date of Hajj?
The last date of Hajj 2024 is expected to be on the evening of Wednesday, June 19th.
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