Dubai (TAN): Emirates will operate additional flights to the Saudi Arabian cities of Mecca and Jeddah for Hajj pilgrims between July 27 and August 22, 2019. The 46 extra flights will serve Mecca and Jeddah alongside Emirates’ scheduled flights to the two cities.
The carrier expects pilgrims from various destinations including Pakistan, the United States, Senegal, the United Kingdom, Nigeria, Indonesia, South Africa and Ivory Coast to fly Emirates for their Hajj journey.
“Hajj is one of the most significant events in the Muslim faith, and every year, Emirates’ primary focus is to help facilitate seamless travel for our Hajj passengers as they converge on the Holy City of Mecca for this once in a lifetime journey,” Emirates’ Senior Vice President, Commercial Operations, Gulf, Middle East and Iran, Adil Al Ghaith said.
He added: “With the substantial increase of inbound air travel into the Kingdom during this period, Emirates’ 46 extra flights will ensure that we can cater to that demand, as well as provide tailored onboard services in line with the tenets of Hajj.”
Emirates has arranged a team in Dubai that will look after check-in and transfers of Hajj passengers leaving from and transiting in Dubai.
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While Hajj pilgrims will be able to perform ablutions and watch the Quran channel in the air, the airline will provide other in-flight services such as informing passengers when they enter Al Miqat zones, and offering extra blankets and unperfumed hot towels.
Additionally, Hajj fliers will be allowed to bring up to five litres of holy water on flights from Jeddah.
