
First batch of Qatari pilgrims arrive in Saudi Arabia for Hajj
The first group of Qatari pilgrims has started arriving in Saudi Arabia on Saturday to perform the Hajj pilgrimage.
The joint efforts of Awqaf's Department of Hajj and Umrah Affairs, Qatari Hajj Mission, and other relevant authorities ensured that the arrival took place in a well-coordinated and organized manner.
The efforts are aimed at ensuring the comfort and safety of Qatari pilgrims from their departure at Hamad International Airport (HIA) until the completion of their pilgrimage and safe return home.
Several flights operated by Qatar Airways and Saudi Airlines departed HIA on Saturday, carrying pilgrims affiliated with 17 accredited Qatari Hajj campaigns.
The first flight arrived at 10am and was warmly received by members of the Qatari Hajj Mission, including staff from the Coordination and Follow-up Unit, the Airport Unit, and the Inspection and Oversight Unit. Flights continued to arrive throughout the afternoon and evening, with the last flight of the day landing at 9pm.
The arrival of pilgrims is set to continue through Sunday at the King Abdulaziz International Airport and the Hajj Terminal in Jeddah. The majority of Qatari pilgrims are expected to arrive by Monday (June 2).
Qatari pilgrims are performing Hajj under 17 officially approved campaigns — Al Manasik, Lusail, Al Ali, Zamzam, Al Furqan, Al Tawbah, Al Bayan, Al Huda, The Fifth Pillar, Al Marwa, Hatim, Al Aqsa, Al Noor, Taybah, Al Hammadi, Al Quds, and Nusk.
The Department of Hajj and Umrah Affairs coordinated with all relevant entities in Qatar to facilitate the pilgrims' travel. Qatar Airways, in cooperation with the Coordination and Follow-up Unit at the Qatari Hajj Mission, offered early baggage drop-off services 24 hours before flight departure, along with pre-issued boarding passes, allowing pilgrims to head straight to their departure gates.
Dedicated Qatar Airways counters were also set up at the HIA for Hajj pilgrims. Meanwhile, the Qatari Hajj Mission deployed joint Qatari support teams at Saudi airports in cooperation with Qatar Airways representatives to facilitate entry procedures through Saudi border control.
The Qatari Hajj Mission operates around the clock in the holy lands with its full team, ensuring comprehensive logistical, religious, medical, and advisory support so pilgrims can perform their rituals under optimal spiritual, health, and organizational conditions.
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