With preparations underway for Hajj 2026, UAE authorities have issued a reminder for all pilgrims to strictly follow the health and safety requirements set by both the UAE and Saudi Arabia.

The General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Zakat (Awqaf UAE) emphasised that the well-being of pilgrims remains a top national priority, ensuring every journey to the holy sites is safe, organised, and spiritually fulfilling.

Health Requirements for Hajj 2026

Pilgrims must be medically fit to perform Hajj and free from certain conditions that could pose risks during the pilgrimage. Those with the following health issues will not be cleared to travel:

• Major organ failure or any physical condition preventing Hajj rituals
• Neurological or psychological disorders affecting cognition
• Old age accompanied by dementia
• Pregnancy during the last three months
• Active infectious diseases such as tuberculosis or hemorrhagic fevers
• Active cancer cases undergoing chemotherapy or similar treatments

Mandatory Vaccinations

All pilgrims are required to complete their immunisations well before Hajj, including:

• Meningitis and seasonal influenza vaccines
• Covid 19 and other recommended vaccines based on individual health conditions

Awqaf UAE confirmed it will review the results of all medical examinations in coordination with the country’s health authorities to ensure each pilgrim meets the approved standards.

Record Number of Applicants

This year saw an impressive 72,000 applications submitted via the official Awqaf UAE app and website before the October 9 deadline. The authority has already begun reviewing applications, and those who receive preliminary approval will be contacted directly to complete their final registration within the specified timelines.

The UAE has called on all pilgrims to fully comply with the health guidelines issued by both countries, ensuring that Hajj 2026 is performed in a safe, healthy, and spiritually enriching environment.

Car enthusiasts, here’s your chance to turn heads on Dubai’s roads. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced its 81st online auction, offering 300 exclusive vehicle plate codes, and these aren’t your average numbers.

The limited collection includes three, four, and five-digit plates from coveted series such as A, B, I, K, L, M, N, O, P, Q, R, S, T, U, V, W, X, Y, and Z. Both private and classic car owners can take part in this high-demand auction.

When and how to join the bidding:

• Registration opens: Monday, October 27
• Bidding starts: Monday, November 3, and runs for five days
• Where: Online via the RTA website or mobile app

To participate, bidders must have an active traffic file in Dubai and submit a Dh5,000 security cheque payable to the RTA, along with a non-refundable participation fee of Dh120. Payments can be made online or at RTA Customer Happiness Centres in Umm Ramool, Al Barsha, or Deira.

Winners must complete payment within 10 working days after the auction ends. Cash payments are accepted up to Dh50,000, while larger amounts can be paid by certified cheque or credit card, either online or at RTA service centres.

And yes, all plate sales are subject to 5% VAT.

Whether you’re after a lucky number, a personalised plate, or simply want to make your ride stand out, this auction is your ticket to owning a little slice of Dubai style.

Good news for social media creators in the UAE. The deadline to get your Advertiser Permit has now been extended to January 31, 2026. This gives everyone more breathing room to comply with the rules introduced earlier this year on July 30, which came with a three-month grace period.

If you post promotional content online, whether it’s paid or unpaid, this permit is now mandatory. It applies to influencers, content creators, and anyone promoting products or services on social platforms. The goal? Transparency and accountability in digital promotions across the UAE.

The permit is free for the first three years for both UAE residents and citizens, and after that, renewals will be required.

Not everyone needs to apply. If you’re promoting your own products or services, or those of a company you own, you’re exempt. Minors under 18 involved in educational, cultural, sports, or awareness activities are also exempt, as long as they meet the age guidelines.

The Media Council says the extended deadline isn’t a free pass — it’s meant to give creators extra time to understand and comply without penalties. The application process is straightforward and can be completed via the UAE Media Council website, where all guidelines and instructions are provided.

With social media becoming such a key part of marketing, the UAE’s Advertiser Permit system is designed to create a professional and transparent online environment. Creators are encouraged to apply sooner rather than later to avoid last-minute rushes and ensure their content stays compliant.

Whether you’re a budding influencer or a seasoned content creator, now’s the time to make sure you’re covered, your posts, and your rules but officially approved.