First flight carrying Haj pilgrims takes off today

dubai — The maiden flight carrying Haj pilgrims this season will take off from Dubai International Airport today, the Haj and Umrah Committee announced on Wednesday.

Arrangements are being made to provide the best services to residents heading to Saudi Arabia for the pilgrimage this year. “Areas No 6 in Terminal 3 and at Terminal 1 at Dubai International Airport have been designated only for pilgrims, to finalise check-in procedures quickly and comfortably, and determine the counters and baggage belts. Buggies have also been provided to transport elderly pilgrims to the transit area.”

Dubai National Air Transport Association (Dnata), the medical centre at Dubai Airport and the Dubai Corporation for Ambulance Services will also be at hand with services round the clock.

The Department of Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities (IACAD) will answer religious queries and questions of the outgoing pilgrims, advising them and distributing copies of the Holy Quran.

Emirates airlines will operate 38 extra flights designated only for pilgrims from Terminal 3, flying to Jeddah and Madinah between August 17 and 26, besides the five daily scheduled flights, of which three head to Jeddah and two to Madinah.

Saudia, the Saudi national carrier, will operate two additional flights on August 26 and 27, besides the daily scheduled flights.— Wam