The holy month of Dhul-Hijjah is on its way to appear. The month comes with the opportunity to perform the Hajj pilgrimage. As pilgrims are getting ready for the obligatory pilgrimage, this blog highlights essential details for a stress-free pilgrimage experience. From package insights to registration guidelines, we’ve got you covered. Prepare for your spiritual journey with confidence and gain a deeper understanding of this pillar of Islam.
India’s Hajj 2024 Guidelines for every Muslim
The Haj Committee of India (HCol), a government body under the Ministry of Minority Affairs, has already released guidelines for individuals applying for Hajj 2024 (Hijri – 1445). If you’re planning to go on this sacred journey and looking for a Hajj package 2024, it’s crucial to go through the guidelines before your journey.
- Where to Find Guidelines: To access the whole guidelines for Hajj 2024, visit the HCol website at www.hajcommittee.gov.in. It’s recommended that you read these guidelines carefully to ensure a smooth application process.
- How to Apply: The Hajj Application Form (HAF) can be filled out and submitted online at www.hajcommittee.gov.in. Additionally, you can use the Android Mobile App “HAJ SUVIDHA” for the application process. Take your time to provide accurate information and review your application before submission.
- Document Submission: After completing the HAF, download a copy for your records. Later, you’ll need to submit the printed copy along with essential documents such as your Passport and Remittance Receipt to the respective State Haj Committees (SHCs) during the selection process.
Going on the Hajj journey is a significant spiritual act, and understanding the application process is crucial. By following these simple guidelines and using the provided online resources, you can navigate the application process with ease and ensure a fulfilling pilgrimage experience.
Essential Information for Muslims Applied for Hajj in 2024
For Muslims who have the financial and physical resources to make this pilgrimage, Hajj is a sacred duty. Saudi Arabia’s guidelines specify the requirements that must be met for someone to be eligible to perform the Hajj or Umrah. Let’s break down these guidelines in simple terms.
Hajj package booking guidelines
1. Physical and Mental Fitness: To go on the Hajj pilgrimage, a Muslim should be physically, behaviorally, and mentally fit. This ensures a safe and spiritually meaningful experience. So, before your Hajj package booking check if you are physically fit or not.
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2. Indian Citizenship: Any Muslim citizen of India can apply for Hajj, but there are specific conditions. First, the pilgrim must have a machine-readable valid Indian International Passport. Also, the passport should be valid at least until January 31, 2025.
3. Hajj Repeaters: Individuals who have previously performed Hajj are generally not eligible, except under certain circumstances, such as applying as a Mehram for a lady pilgrim or as a partner for the pilgrims who are 70 years of age or older.
4. False Information: Providing false information disqualifies an applicant. Such individuals may be de-boarded at the Embarkation Point, and the deposited amount may be forfeited. Legal action may also be taken for making incorrect or false declarations.
5. Medical Conditions: Individuals with severe medical conditions like terminal cancer, advanced cardiac, respiratory, liver, kidney diseases, infectious tuberculosis, or senility are not eligible for Hajj.
6. Ladies Without Mehram: Ladies not accompanied by a Mehram are generally not eligible, except as specified in the Hajj Policy for Haj 2024.
7. Pregnant Women: Pregnant women in advanced stages must follow international flying standards.
8. Court Orders: Individuals with a court order prohibiting travel abroad are not eligible for Hajj.
9. Age Requirement: Applicants below the age of 18 are generally not eligible unless consent from parents or legal guardians has been obtained.
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If you want to make this the best hajj tour for yourself follow these guidelines and ensure a smooth and safe pilgrimage. It is crucial for applicants to carefully review and follow these criteria to make their spiritual journey a fulfilling and meaningful experience.
Mark Your Calendar: Key Dates for Hajj 2024
In 2024, the Hajj pilgrimage holds significant dates for Muslims worldwide. Remember these key dates regarding Hajj 2024:
1. Hajj Begins – 14th June 2024 (8th Dhul Hijjah 1445): The pilgrimage journey starts on the 14th of June, marking the 8th day of Dhul Hijjah in the Islamic calendar. Pilgrims begin their sacred journey to fulfill their religious duty.
2. Day of ‘Arafah – 15th June 2024 (9th Dhul Hijjah 1445): The Day of ‘Arafah falls on the 15th of June, corresponding to the 9th day of Dhul Hijjah. Pilgrims gather in the plains of ‘Arafah, engaging in prayers and seeking forgiveness—a crucial and spiritually charged day.
3. Eid al Adha – 16th June 2024 (10th Dhul Hijjah 1445): The joyous festival of Eid-al-Adha is celebrated on the 16th of June, marking the 10th day of Dhul Hijjah. Pilgrims who have completed the rituals of Hajj join Muslims worldwide in commemorating the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice for God.
4. Islamic New Year – 7th July 2024 (1st Muharram 1446): The Islamic New Year arrives on the 7th of July, marking the first day of Muharram in the year 1446. This marks the beginning of the new lunar year in the Islamic calendar, signifying a time for reflection and fresh beginnings.
As these dates approach, Muslims everywhere eagerly await and get ready to experience the sacred significance these dates hold. To make sure you don’t miss these important Hajj season moments in 2024, put these dates on your calendar.
Details of Hajj 2024 Packages in India
Planning to go on the holy journey of Hajj requires careful thought about the pilgrimage package. The current cost set by the Hajj Committee of India (HCI) is Rs 3,99,500.
1. Official HCI Packages: The main package costs Rs 3,99,500 and is provided by the Hajj Committee of India. This package covers all the important aspects of the pilgrimage, ensuring a smooth and spiritually enriching experience.
2. Private Travel Operators: Choosing a private Hajj tour operator gives you more flexibility but may cost an extra Rs 600 for Hajj packages compared to government rates. These operators curate the package according to your needs. As well as they can customize the package as per your choice. It’s important to weigh the benefits and costs of private operators against the official HCI package.
3. Variety of Options: Pilgrims looking for packages that fit their budget and preferences can check various options on the Hajj Committee of India’s official website. These packages generally start between Rs 3.5 to Rs 4 lakh, providing flexibility to choose a package that matches individual financial capabilities and requirements.
Selecting a Hajj tour Package involves balancing cost, convenience, and personal preferences. With options from both the Hajj Committee of India and private operators, pilgrims can find a suitable package for their spiritual journey without compromising on their budget or specific needs.
Important Documents You Need for Hajj 2024 in India
Setting out on the holy Hajj pilgrimage in 2024? Getting all of your important documents in order is part of being prepared. This is a brief guide to the essential documents you will require for a trouble-free pilgrimage.
1. Passport-Size Photo: First things first, make sure you have a recent passport-size photo for your Hajj application. This is a basic requirement and should show how you currently look.
2. Mobile Number and Email ID: Don’t forget to provide an active mobile number and email ID during the application process. Why? Because these details are super important for communication and updates related to your Hajj journey.
3. ID Cards for Applicants: Bring along valid identification cards issued by your country. These ID cards are a must for verification and follow the specific regulations of each country.
4. Visa and Passport: Make sure you have a valid visa for Saudi Arabia and check that your passport is up-to-date. These documents are your ticket to entering the country and participating in the sacred Hajj pilgrimage.
5. Bank Passbook Copy: Tuck in a copy of your bank passbook with your documents. This copy helps verify your financial capacity for the pilgrimage, ensuring you’re all set for the journey. This is very important for booking both Hajj and Umrah packages.
Organizing these key documents – passport-size photo, mobile number, email ID, ID cards, visa, and bank passbook copy – will pave your way for a hassle-free and spiritually enriching Hajj experience in 2024. Get your paperwork in order and focus on the sacred journey ahead.
Hajj 2024 Instalment Plan by the Ministry for Hajj & Umrah
There is good news for those dreaming of this pilgrimage! The Ministry for Hajj & Umrah has introduced a convenient Hajj 2024 Instalment Plan for pilgrims. Here’s how it works:
After paying the initial advance Hajj amount, pilgrims can choose to settle the remaining balance in two or three easy instalments. The first instalment, amounting to Rs.1,70,000/- has to be paid immediately. The pilgrims then have the option to pay the remaining balance by the second or third week of March 2024, as per the timeline set by HCoI.
It’s important to note that timely payments are crucial to secure your Hajj seat. If the payments are not made by the specified due date, there is a risk of cancellation. This instalment plan is designed to provide flexibility and ease for pilgrims, ensuring that the financial aspect of the pilgrimage is manageable. Don’t miss the opportunity to go on this sacred journey – follow the instalment plan and secure your spot for Hajj 2024.
New Vision for Hajj: Facts to know is here
On January 7th, India and Saudi Arabia joined hands to ink a new deal, outlining a fresh approach for the Hajj pilgrimage in 2024. As per the agreement, New Delhi has secured a quota for 175,025 pilgrims for the upcoming annual Hajj pilgrimage.
- Breaking it down, the allocated slots comprise 140,020 seats for the pilgrims traveling through the Hajj Committee, while 35,005 spaces are set aside for those opting for private operators. This move aims to ensure a smooth and organized experience for Indian pilgrims during the sacred journey.
- If you are booking your Umrah packages from India, this will make you happy. To make Umrah visits easier, anyone wishing to perform Umrah can now apply for a Kingdom entry visa in as little as 48 hours. Furthermore, Indian tourists are free to use work, tourism, or Umrah visas in Saudi Arabia to start their Umrah pilgrimage.
- A new stopover visa that permits a 96-hour stay has been introduced, making travel to the West or the Middle East more convenient for Indian nationals. This visa is easily included in the process of issuing tickets, allowing visitors to the Kingdom to make the Umrah and visit any city while they are in the country.
These calculated changes to the pilgrimage protocols represent a major advancement in improving accessibility and providing Indian citizens with a more convenient and effective pilgrimage experience.
Conclusion
As we have come to the end of the blog, now you know why the information mentioned above is important to the pilgrims going on the Hajj in 2024. Being well-prepared is crucial for a fulfilling experience. The guidelines for Hajj 2024 in India act as a guide for pilgrims, providing important information and dates to remember. The details about Hajj 2024