According to the GAIAA instructions, the Haj operators should also secure additional space not less than five per cent of the total number of pilgrims in each campaign to meet any emergency situation and provide spacious residential units for all pilgrims.

This was revealed during a meeting recently at the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry attended by the Haj operators, GAIAA Chairman Dr Hamdan Al Mazrouei and GAIAA Director-General Dr Mohammed Mattar Al Ka’abi.

As many as 142 Haj operators were honoured for the excellent services they provided to pilgrims during the last Haj season. Licences of 12 operators were cancelled and 37 others were slapped with fines for various violations.

The GAIAA Deputy Director for Mosques and head of the official Haj mission, Mohammed Obeid Al Mazrouei, said Haj operators have been given a grace time up to June 30 to provide the GAIAA with the lists of drivers who will drive the coaches carrying pilgrims to the holy lands.

He made it quite clear that only drivers registered with the Saudi authorities will be allowed to enter Saudi Arabia.

Lists of administrators, preachers, doctors and paramedics who will serve pilgrims should also be submitted within the said period.

He warned all operators against processing the Haj papers of any nationalities from outside the UAE.