Ugandans to put 75 per cent down payment on 2024 Hajj pilgrimage

The Bureau Secretary General, Sheikh Twaib Bogere says immediate registration of pilgrims has commenced in collaboration with various companies.

“We are committed to strict adherence to timelines. These new regulations stem from recent adjustments within the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Hajj,” he added.

He emphasized that Muslims should be aware that this practice is not novel, as in numerous countries, individuals intending to embark on pilgrimage often register even two to three years in advance, allowing for more effective preparation.

The recent modifications were introduced in response to a disorderly process during which several prospective pilgrims were unable to secure Saudi Arabia visas for this year’s Hajj due to issues with the upgraded e-system, which was implemented only a few weeks prior to the pilgrimage.

New measures

Consequently, Saudi authorities have established novel measures, including the earlier issuance of visas. As per a document from the Hajj Bureau, by November 4th of this year, comprehensive Hajj packages will be unveiled, outlining the fees corresponding to pilgrim classifications.

“Issuance of visa will begin on 1st March 2024. Issuance of visa will stop on 29th April 2024. (and) the first group of pilgrims from the whole world shall arrive in Mecca on 9th May 2024 (this is a month before the hajj),” the document reads in part.

For Ugandan pilgrims, it is anticipated that all individuals planning to undertake the pilgrimage should have settled a minimum of 75 per cent of the stipulated fees, amounting to $4,146, which is roughly equivalent to Shs14.9 million.

"Deadline for clearing all dues and receiving passports for intending pilgrims is 10th April. The first group of pilgrims from Uganda will depart on 4th June 2024 and the last group of pilgrims from Mecca shall return on 28th June 2024."

He remarked, further noting that Ugandans have often contributed to disorder by waiting until the final moments to make payments, a practice that, in his view, will not be viable on this occasion.

In the recently concluded pilgrimage, approximately 1,460 Ugandan pilgrims participated, marking an increase from the previous year’s count of 1,200 individuals.