Dates of Hajj Season Begins in the United Arab Emirates
2026 | May 18 |
2025 | May 29 |
2024 | Jun 8 |
Related Holidays in the United Arab Emirates
United Arab Emirates Holiday Calendars
Hajj season begins with the arrival of Dhul-Hijjah, the final month of the Islamic calendar, as pilgrims from the UAE and around the world prepare for the sacred journey to Makkah. It is a time marked by spiritual readiness, special prayers, and increased devotion.
Hajj Season Begins: A Public Holiday?
Hajj Season Beginning is not a public holiday in the United Arab Emirates. While the season holds deep religious importance, regular work and school schedules continue. Public holidays are typically granted for Arafat Day and Eid al-Adha, which fall within the Hajj period.

Hajj Season
Hajj, the annual Islamic pilgrimage to Makkah, is one of the five pillars of Islam and has been observed by Muslims for over 1,400 years. It begins each year during the month of Dhul-Hijjah, the final month of the Islamic calendar. The pilgrimage honors the legacy of Prophet Ibrahim (PBUH) and is completed with rituals that reflect obedience, sacrifice, and unity.
In the United Arab Emirates, the Hajj season has long been recognized as a special time. Since the country's formation, the UAE has actively supported its citizens and residents in performing Hajj. The government organizes official delegations, ensures safe travel, and provides medical and spiritual support for pilgrims. The nation's strong connection to Islamic values has made the Hajj season a respected and spiritually important period in the UAE's religious calendar.
Observance of the start of Hajj Season in the UAE
As Hajj season begins with the arrival of Dhul-Hijjah, a sense of spiritual awareness rises across the UAE. Those selected to perform Hajj begin final preparations, including attending orientation sessions, completing medical checks, and making travel arrangements. Government agencies and licensed travel operators work closely to ensure a smooth and safe journey. Families and friends gather to say goodbye to their loved ones, offering prayers for a blessed pilgrimage.
For many who are not going on Hajj, the beginning of the season is still very meaningful. People increase their acts of worship, such as daily prayers, Quran recitation, and fasting, especially on the Day of Arafat. Mosques hold sermons and talks to help the community reflect on the values of Hajj—such as patience, humility, and submission to Allah. Charitable giving also increases during this period, as people seek to multiply their good deeds.
The beginning of the Hajj season holds great importance in the UAE. It strengthens the spiritual connection among Muslims and reminds the community of the unity and purpose shared in Islam. Whether performing the pilgrimage or observing from home, people in the UAE embrace this season as a time for faith, family, and reflection, leading into the blessed days of Arafat and Eid al-Adha.
Hajj Season Begins Observances
Year | Date | Weekday | Name | Holiday Type |
---|---|---|---|---|
2024 | Jun 8 | Sat | Hajj Season Begins | Observance |
2025 | May 29 | Thu | Hajj Season Begins | Observance |
2026 | May 18 | Mon | Hajj Season Begins | Observance |