Latest news with #EndowmentsandZakat
Al Etihad
5 days ago
- Politics
- Al Etihad
UAE, Egypt explore use of AI in issuing fatwas
13 Aug 2025 17:47 CAIRO (WAM) Chairman of the General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Zakat, Dr. Omar Habtoor Al Darei, discussed with Dr. Nazir Mohammed Ayyad, Grand Mufti of the Arab Republic of Egypt, ways to enhance cooperation, integration, and the exchange of expertise in the field of fatwa between the UAE and meeting took place on the sidelines of the conference 'The Making of a Competent Mufti in the Digital Age' in Cairo, in the presence of Dr. Khalifa Mubarak Al Dhaheri, Chancellor of Mohamed bin Zayed University for Humanities, Dr. Sabaa Salem Al Kaabi, Acting Secretary-General of the Emirates Fatwa Council, and several officials in religious affairs from both sides. The discussions addressed ways to harness digital technologies and artificial intelligence to deliver accurate fatwas to communities, particularly in light of contemporary challenges and complex issues facing different segments of society.
Gulf Today
17-07-2025
- Business
- Gulf Today
‘Islamic Affairs' body lays down new rules for Hajj campaign organisers
The General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Zakat has launched a new system to select and accredit Hajj campaigns for the 1447H (2026) season, aimed at delivering satisfactory and well-organised services to pilgrims from the UAE. The updated framework outlines a set of standards and conditions that campaigns must meet to be approved. These include service quality, administrative capacity, financial readiness, and results from performance evaluations during the previous Hajj season (1446H / 2025). The authority added that the selection process will prioritise operators who offer diverse service packages that cater to various categories of pilgrims. Campaign organisers were briefed on the updated system during a coordination meeting held by the authority. It explained that the new system is designed to deliver services that meet the expectations of UAE pilgrims, while maintaining a balance between cost and quality. The authority stated that this move is part of its ongoing efforts to enhance Hajj operations and foster a spirit of competitiveness that supports effective organisation, compliance with scheduled procedures, and improved service quality for pilgrims. WAM
Emirates 24/7
16-07-2025
- Business
- Emirates 24/7
‘Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Zakat' launches new Hajj campaign selection system
The General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Zakat has launched a new system to select and accredit Hajj campaigns for the 1447H (2026) season, aimed at delivering satisfactory and well-organised services to pilgrims from the UAE. The updated framework outlines a set of standards and conditions that campaigns must meet to be approved. These include service quality, administrative capacity, financial readiness, and results from performance evaluations during the previous Hajj season (1446H / 2025). The authority added that the selection process will prioritise operators who offer diverse service packages that cater to various categories of pilgrims. Campaign organisers were briefed on the updated system during a coordination meeting held by the authority. It explained that the new system is designed to deliver services that meet the expectations of UAE pilgrims, while maintaining a balance between cost and quality. The authority stated that this move is part of its ongoing efforts to enhance Hajj operations and foster a spirit of competitiveness that supports effective organisation, compliance with scheduled procedures, and improved service quality for pilgrims. Follow Emirates 24|7 on Google News.
Time of India
16-07-2025
- Business
- Time of India
UAE Hajj 2026 accreditation process explained: What you need to know before registering
Pilgrims preparing for Hajj 2026 under the UAE's new accreditation system/ Image : pixabay TL;DR The UAE has updated its Hajj campaign approval system to improve service and accountability. Only accredited operators will be allowed to organize Hajj under the Saudi quota. India will also offer a Short Hajj Package for 10,000 pilgrims, aimed at working professionals. Performing Hajj is a once-in-a-lifetime journey. But if you're planning to go from the UAE in 2026, the process has changed and it's important to get it right. The UAE has introduced a new approval system for Hajj campaign operators. This means not all travel agencies will qualify. Only those who meet strict criteria will be allowed to organize Hajj trips. The update comes after years of complaints about poor service and unclear planning. Authorities want to make sure pilgrims get a safer, more organized experience. So, before you register, take a moment to understand what's new and how it affects you. What's new in the UAE's Hajj approval system? 1. Stricter standards for campaign approval Operators must now prove they can offer: Consistent service quality Strong financial management Reliable administration A solid performance record during the 2025 season If they can't meet these, they won't be approved. Tip: Don't sign up with a campaign unless it's officially listed by the General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Zakat. 2. Accountability now built into the process Campaigns will be tracked digitally and reviewed after Hajj. This helps authorities see who delivered and who didn't. Expect digital check-ins, performance ratings, and follow-up surveys. 3. Packages must meet real needs Campaigns that offer tailored packages for seniors, families, or budget travelers are prioritized. Many organizers say flexible packages help meet the needs of different groups. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like An engineer reveals: One simple trick to get internet without a subscription Techno Mag Learn More 4. Matching Saudi Arabia's quota system Every country is given a fixed Hajj quota by Saudi Arabia. The UAE's process now mirrors this. Only campaigns that pass the local screening will get access to that quota. Reminder: If you're not on the list via an approved campaign, you may not be allowed to go. 5. Timelines and official procedures are tighter Miss a step or a deadline, and your campaign may lose its approval. The goal is to avoid the chaos some pilgrims faced in earlier years. Keep an eye on official announcements, they'll lay out the full process and dates. Why these changes matter Hajj is one of the most important journeys in a Muslim's life. But in recent years, some UAE pilgrims faced delays, unclear communication, or lack of proper care. The government wants to fix that by making sure only reliable campaigns get approved. The new system isn't just about paperwork, it's meant to make the Hajj experience smoother and safer for everyone. India introduces Short Hajj Package for working pilgrims If you're applying through India's Haj Committee, there's a new option: a 20-day Short Hajj Package designed for people who can't take extended time off. The Minority Affairs Ministry confirmed it in early July 2025, and the Haj Committee of India included it in their official Haj 2026 Policy. Here's how it works: Open to 10,000 pilgrims out of India's total quota of 175,025 Stay limited to 20 days in Saudi Arabia Selection will happen through Qurrah, the random digital draw system Seats will be allocated based on availability under this special scheme This could be a good option for working professionals or those with time constraints. What You Can Do Now Start looking at operators who performed well in 2025 Follow official UAE Hajj updates on social platforms Collect the documents you'll likely need for registration Ask friends or family who went last year for recommendations FAQs 1. Can I register for Hajj 2026 through any travel agency in the UAE? No. Only agencies approved under the new UAE system are allowed to organize Hajj trips. Make sure the campaign you choose is officially accredited. 2. What does 'tailored packages' mean in the new system? It refers to options designed for different types of pilgrims, like affordable plans for budget travelers, or easier schedules for seniors. 3. How do I know if a Hajj campaign is approved? The General Authority of Islamic Affairs usually publishes a list of accredited campaigns before registration opens. Check their official channels.
Al Etihad
08-07-2025
- Politics
- Al Etihad
Hamdan bin Zayed receives Chairman of General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Zakat
8 July 2025 23:49 ABU DHABI (WAM)His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler's Representative in Al Dhafra Region, received Dr. Omar Habtoor Al Darei, Chairman of the General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Zakat, and his accompanying delegation, at Al Seef Palace in Abu meeting came as part of the leadership's commitment to reviewing achievements and strategies that contribute to advancing community the meeting, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan was briefed on the authority's key projects and its strategy for supporting mosques and enhancing related services. Discussions also touched on the authority's role in promoting Islamic culture, fostering societal awareness, and instilling values of tolerance and coexistence. His Highness Sheikh Hamdan praised the strong support provided to the authority by President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and His Highness's keenness to empower it to fulfil its religious and national mission, while advancing its role in serving the community and spreading the noble humanitarian values on which the UAE is founded. The meeting also reviewed the authority's efforts in managing endowments, developing Quran memorisation centres and serving the Holy Book, as well as its activities in Al Dhafra Region and contributions to national, social and cultural events.
