Awqaf UAE outlines facilities available for Hajj pilgrims this year

Awqaf's Pilgrims Affairs offices and the UAE's pilgrims' camps in KSA have been furnished with e-gates that will require e-card for entry and exit, said Dr Mohammed Matar al Kaabi, Chairman of the General Authority of Religious Affairs and Endowments in the UAE (Awqaf). Awqaf will set up the camps in accordance with the highest standards in terms of ventilation and air-conditioning, Dr al Kaabi added, noting that top-quality split unit air-conditioning systems will be installed in all tents.

Dr al Kaabi also stressed that the official UAE Hajj mission will ensure enough washrooms, ablution corners and prayer rooms for pilgrims. The number is increased as necessary in ongoing efforts to improve service quality every year, he said.

Dr al Kaabi further highlighted that 13 committees are focused on various services for pilgrims and staffed round the clock. The committees support pilgrims throughout the entire Hajj, starting with preparations for travel, through to performing Hajj rites and returning to the UAE, he added.

Special care is also given to women's camps.

Dr al Kaabi added that pilgrims should take the compulsory vaccinations and undergo the necessary medical checks at the Ministry of Health before heading out on the Hajj. Other requirements pertaining to residents include possessing passports valid for at least six months. The same applies for their residency permits, he added.

Dr al Kaabi explained that such information should then be entered into the Awqaf's electronic system which will then forward the data to the electronic systems used by KSA. Following that, Hajj permits will be issued to citizens while residents will obtain the Hajj visa. Amongst other important regulations, Dr al Kaabi stressed the need for each pilgrim to sign a contract with the Hajj operator of their choice. Those contracts cover air tickets in addition to transportation, accommodation and supplies in the holy sites, Dr al Kaabi added.

He also underscored that Awqaf will conduct workshops and religious, medical and introductory lectures via various media outlets. Such workshops and lectures will start at the beginning of Dhul Qa'adah (early August 2016) and are aimed at promoting pilgrims' awareness about Hajj affairs and safety procedures before heading to the holy sites.

A preparatory mission departs for KSA ahead of pilgrims to take responsibility for the locations allocated for the UAE pilgrims, set up the camps and furnish them with all services necessary for the pilgrims and the mission. Medical services, including clinics, pharmacies, physicians, nursing teams, medicine and medical devices, are delivered free of charge and offered at all Hujjaj Affairs' offices in Makkah, Madinah, Mina and Arafat as well as at all Hajj campaign premises across the UAE, Dr al Kaabi concluded.