ABU DHABI: The UAE Hajj Affairs Office has announced that its camps in Mina and Arafat are fully operational following the start of trial operations, ensuring readiness to accommodate 6,228 Emirati pilgrims for the 2025 Hajj season.
The announcement marks a major milestone in the UAE’s preparations for Hajj and reflects the country’s commitment to providing pilgrims with a safe, comfortable, and spiritually enriching experience.
According to the office, the camps have been equipped with enhanced infrastructure including advanced air-conditioning systems, expanded catering services, and improved medical and administrative facilities. Environmental features such as shaded walkways, misting fans, and newly planted trees were added to reduce heat stress and support health and safety.
Worship amenities have also been upgraded. A new mosque accommodating over 400 worshippers was built in Mina, while Arafat camps now include designated prayer areas with high-quality audio and video systems to broadcast sermons and prayers.
Dr. Omar Habtoor Al Darei, Chairman of the General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Zakat, praised the swift completion of preparations and highlighted the emphasis on enhancing service efficiency and reliability for pilgrims.
Operational teams have been deployed on the ground in Saudi Arabia to manage logistics, transport, healthcare, and accommodation. Ahmed Rashid Al Neyadi, Director-General of the Authority, confirmed that strict health and safety protocols are in place and that trial operations have verified the full readiness of all service areas.
Major infrastructure developments include the installation of a third power station in collaboration with Saudi authorities and the construction of an additional prayer area in Arafat. Over 200 trees were planted to aid in natural cooling, and fans were installed to improve airflow.
To assist pilgrims, over 6,500 religious and informational materials, including copies of the Holy Qur’an, guides, and maps, have been distributed.
A delegation from the UAE Pilgrims Affairs Office has arrived in Makkah ahead of the main pilgrim groups and has begun receiving early arrivals at Jeddah International Airport, while continuing field inspections to ensure compliance with UAE standards.
The UAE Hajj Committee affirmed its continued round-the-clock supervision across all service sectors, underscoring the nation's commitment to supporting the dignity, safety, and spiritual well-being of its pilgrims during their sacred journey.
