HAJJ 2026

What Is Hajj?

Hajj is the sacred pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca, Saudi Arabia. It is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, making it a mandatory act of worship for every Muslim who is physically, mentally, and financially capable of undertaking the journey.

Every year, millions of Muslims from across the globe gather in Mecca to fulfill this divine obligation—standing together in unity, humility, and submission to Allah (SWT).

When Does Hajj Take Place?

Hajj occurs annually from the 8th to the 13th of Dhul Hijjah, the 12th and final month of the Islamic lunar calendar. Because the Islamic calendar is based on the moon, Hajj dates shift approximately 11–12 days earlier each year on the Gregorian calendar.

In 2026, Hajj is expected to take place between 24th May and 29th May, subject to official moon sighting.

The Spiritual Significance of Hajj

Hajj is much more than a physical journey—it is a profound spiritual experience. Pilgrims seek:

• Forgiveness from Allah (SWT)

• Cleansing of the heart and soul

• Renewed faith and a closer connection with their Creator

As the Qur’an states (Surah Al-Fath, 48:27):

“You will enter the Sacred Mosque, if Allah wills, in security—some having shaved their heads, others with hair cut short—not fearing anything…”

Hajj inspires humility, unity, and self-reflection, often serving as a spiritual reset that leaves a lifelong impact.

Where Is Hajj Performed?

Hajj is carried out over 5–6 days in and around Mecca. Pilgrims follow a series of sacred rites at the following holy sites:

• Masjid al-Haram & the Kaaba – The holiest site in Islam and the qiblah (direction of prayer)

• Mina – A tent city where pilgrims spend the night in worship

• Arafah – The most significant day of Hajj; pilgrims stand in prayer and reflection

• Muzdalifah – Where pilgrims sleep under the stars and collect pebbles for rituals

• Jamarat – The symbolic stoning of the devil, signifying rejection of evil

Though physically demanding, with walking distances of 5–15 km per day, Hajj is a deeply rewarding and uplifting experience.

Who Must Perform Hajj?

Hajj is an individual obligation for every Muslim who meets the following conditions:

• Is an adult of sound mind

• Is financially able to afford the journey

• Is physically and mentally fit to undertake the pilgrimage

If someone is financially capable but physically unable (e.g., due to age or illness), they may appoint another person to perform Hajj on their behalf.

Who Is Exempt from Hajj?

Hajj is not obligatory for:

• Children (Though they may perform Hajj, it won’t fulfill the mandatory obligation of Hajjul Islam)

• Those who cannot afford the journey

• Debtors, unless:

  • Their creditors permit it

  • Hajj will not compromise their ability to repay their debts

A Brief History of Hajj

The history of Hajj dates back to Prophet Ibrahim (AS), who, following Allah’s command, left his wife Hajar and son Ismail (AS) in the desert. Hajar’s desperate search for water led to the miraculous emergence of Zamzam water.

Later, Ibrahim (AS) and Ismail (AS) built the Kaaba—establishing it as a symbol of pure monotheism.

In 628 CE, Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) restored Hajj to its original monotheistic form, removing all pagan elements and reviving the rites of Prophet Ibrahim (AS).

Can Hajj Be Performed More Than Once?

Yes. Hajj is obligatory only once in a lifetime for those who meet the conditions. However, performing it more than once is considered commendable (mustahab) and brings immense spiritual reward for those with the means.

Plan Your Hajj with Umanaa Travel Agency Limited

At Umanaa Travel Agency Limited, we are honored to assist the Muslim community in Kenya with seamless, spiritually fulfilling Hajj experiences. With years of expertise and trusted service, we offer specialized Hajj packages tailored for Kenyan citizens.

Our Services Include:

• Complete Hajj package planning and coordination

• Visa processing and travel documentation

• Flights from Kenya to Saudi Arabia

• Comfortable accommodation near the Haram in Mecca and Medina

• Ground transportation and guided tours of sacred sites

• Pre-Hajj seminars and religious guidance

• Hajj kit including bags, ihram, and Hajj/Umrah books

• Tented accommodation in Mina, meals, and full ground transport in Mecca & Medina

• 24/7 support before and throughout the journey

Let us handle all the logistics, so you can fully focus on your worship (ibadah) and spiritual transformation.

Reserve Your Spot for Hajj 2026

Due to limited national quotas and high demand worldwide, Hajj slots fill up quickly.

Book early with Umanaa Travel Agency Limited and secure your place on this blessed journey of a lifetime.

Experience Hajj with peace of mind—guided by a team you can trust.