Kuwait opens electronic Hajj registration, setting strict criteria for first-time pilgrims

The ministry has set several conditions for registration, aiming to give priority to first-time pilgrims and ensure organized participation.

Kuwaiti nationals who have never performed Hajj are eligible to apply, with groups limited to three people, including relatives.

Each group may include an expatriate companion, such as a resident spouse or child, as well as a non-citizen companion, such as the spouse or mother of a Kuwaiti.

Stateless persons (Bedouins) who have not previously performed Hajj may also apply, with similar limitations on group size. Bedoun applicants can add a resident companion, such as a spouse or mother, as well as a Kuwaiti companion and must hold a valid security card.

A payment of 750 Kuwaiti dinars per registrant is required to confirm participation, and transfers between caravans are permitted only once, with a deadline of 31 December 2024. Applicants are also allowed to exchange or substitute participants during the registration period.

Entrants will be classified by age, with those aged 60 and over in the first category, people aged 35 to 59 in the second category and those aged 34 and under in the third category.

The ministry said applicants who cancel before December 31 will receive a full refund, while cancellations after this date will result in the loss of the advance payment, unless the canceled place is filled.