Hajj: Awqaf receives 11,000 registrations

Tribune News Network

As many as 11,000 Qatari citizens and expatriate residents have applied so far for hajj this year since the registration for the pilgrimage started on March 1.

Registration facility is available online in English and Arabic on the website of the Hajj and Umrah Affairs Department at the Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs (www.hajj.gov.qa). Last date for registration is March 30.

Director of Haj and Umrah Affairs Department Ali bin Sultan al Msafiri told QNA that the registration process is continuing smoothly despite the large turnout of applicants during the first few days of registration.

"The number of applicants has reached 10,800 so far. We expect an increase in the number of applications this year compared with last pilgrimage season, when 18,000 applications were received," he said.

He announced that the first electronic sorting out of the applications will take place mid of April. The applicants of accepted registrations will be informed by sms and emails.

On Qatar's quota for hajj this year, Msafiri said an increase in the country's share is expected, especially as Saudi Arabia has announced a rise in capacity of pilgrims for this season.