The Hajj pilgrimage represents a life-changing journey for millions of Muslims worldwide. This year, Emirates is committed to ensuring a smooth and comfortable experience for pilgrims traveling through its vast network. From dedicated airport assistance to thoughtful onboard amenities, Emirates prioritizes a seamless journey for every step of the Hajj experience.
Increased Capacity Meets Peak Demand
To accommodate the surge in pilgrims during the Hajj season, Emirates has strategically bolstered its flight schedule. Ten additional flights operate between June 7th and 10th, as well as June 21st and 26th, specifically transporting pilgrims to Jeddah and Medina, key destinations for Hajj rituals. These meticulously timed flights cater to major Hajj travel markets, including Indonesia, Thailand, Côte d’Ivoire, Mauritius, South Africa, Senegal, and Pakistan.
The additional flights supplement Emirates’ existing scheduled services to Jeddah and Medina, offering a wider range of options for countless travelers within their global network to fulfill this central pillar of Islam. Additionally, to address high demand during Eid al-Adha in mid-June, Emirates has deployed 19 flights to cities like Amman, Dammam, Kuwait, and Beirut.
Streamlined Ground Experience at Every Touchpoint
Emirates extends its renowned hospitality beyond the skies, ensuring a well-coordinated airport experience for pilgrims. Dedicated teams are positioned throughout Dubai International Airport, guiding pilgrims seamlessly through arrival, connection, and departure processes.
Exceptional Service for Every Pilgrim:
- Warm Welcome: Upon arrival, pilgrims are greeted by Emirates Airport Service personnel holding special welcome signs.
- Efficient Connection: Dedicated staff assist with onward flight connections, ensuring a smooth transition within the airport.
- Hotel Assistance: For pilgrims with layovers, Emirates facilitates hotel arrangements with luggage transfer via dedicated buses.
- Special Touches: Luggage receives special Emirates “Hajj” tags, and the official UAE Hajj flight departing Dubai on June 11th enjoys unique gifts.
These personalized touches exemplify the Emirates’ commitment to a stress-free and enriching Hajj experience from the moment pilgrims land in Dubai.
Enhancing the Onboard Hajj Journey
Emirates understands the unique needs of pilgrims onboard. Special provisions are made to accommodate ablutions, including offering unperfumed towels and additional blankets for comfort.
Empowering Spiritual Practices:
- Timely Announcements: Public address announcements notify passengers when entering Al Miqat zones, signifying a state of spiritual sanctity.
- Ihram Guidance: Informative announcements highlight the significance of changing into Ihram robes.
- Dedicated Entertainment: Emirates’ award-winning ice inflight entertainment system features a special video dedicated to Hajj formalities, safety guidelines, and essential pilgrimage information.
- Spiritual Reflection: Passengers can access the Holy Quran channel or explore Quranic verses through the ice system, fostering introspection and devotion throughout the flight.
Considerate Return Journey: Passengers on return flights can check in up to 5 liters of holy Zamzam water, conveniently stored in designated cargo hold areas.
Exploring the Full Hajj Experience:
Emirates encourages pilgrims to utilize their special Hajj flights to explore a comprehensive guide detailing the entire Hajj experience, accessible through their website. This guide offers valuable insights for a smooth and fulfilling journey.
Eligibility and Requirements:
It’s important to note that these special Hajj flights cater to pilgrims possessing a valid Hajj visa, being under 65 years of age, and holding a valid vaccination certificate with a vaccine authorized by the Saudi Ministry of Health.
Through a collaborative effort with Dubai International Airport and various stakeholders within the Dubai travel ecosystem, Emirates remains dedicated to providing a seamless and enriching experience for all Hajj pilgrims choosing to travel through their network.
