Beginning process of transporting pilgrims from the Herat and Kandahar zones to Jeddah International Airport

The process of transporting pilgrims from the Herat and Kandahar zones to Jeddah International Airport has also commenced. The transfer of esteemed pilgrims from the Kabul, Balkh, and Herat air zones to Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah, which began on the 1st of Dhu al-Qa'dah by Ariana Afghan Airlines and Kam Air, has so far resulted in (14,293) fourteen thousand two hundred ninety-three pilgrims arriving in Madinah through (46) forty-six flights. It is expected that with the completion of the remaining two flights from the Herat zone to Madinah, the transfer of half of the pilgrims will be completed.

Furthermore, today, Sunday, the first flight of pilgrims from the Herat zone to Jeddah International Airport was carried out by Ariana Afghan Airlines, transporting (230) two hundred thirty pilgrims from Badghis province. With this flight, the total number of pilgrims who have arrived in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has reached (14,523) fourteen thousand five hundred twenty-three. It is also planned that tomorrow, Monday, the transfer of pilgrims from the Kandahar zone to Jeddah International Airport will begin.

In addition, (8,530) eight thousand five hundred thirty pilgrims, after performing forty (40) prayers at Al-Masjid an-Nabawi and visiting sacred and historical sites, have been transported to Makkah Al-Mukarramah and accommodated in contracted buildings located in the central area of Mahbas Al-Jinn. These pilgrims, with the cooperation of the Rituals Committee and under the guidance and accompaniment of assigned instructors, have performed Umrah. Currently, they are engaged in performing the five daily prayers in congregation at Al-Masjid al-Haram, as well as voluntary Umrah, Tawaf, and other acts of worship.

In order to provide better services, ensure high-level organization, and guarantee the comfort and well-being of Afghan pilgrims in the Two Holy Mosques, the Ministry of Hajj and Religious Affairs has deployed 300 members of the Hajj mission and 150 Afghan residents of Saudi Arabia alongside the staff of contracted companies. These individuals are assigned across various working committees, including airport reception, transportation, accommodation and relocation, catering, rituals guidance, health services, missing persons and deceased affairs, administration and finance, external relations, and complaints handling. Under the direct supervision of the Ministry’s leadership, they continue to serve the pilgrims day and night.

As a result of systematic planning, precise measures, and continuous efforts, the Ministry continues to manage the transfer, accommodation, and service delivery for Afghan pilgrims in an organized and standardized manner, striving to ensure that the pilgrims perform Hajj rituals, Umrah, and other acts of worship with full ease and peace of mind.