For Muslims around the world, Hajj and Umrah represent far more than a physical journey. Travelling to the holy city of Makkah and the sacred Kaaba is considered a deeply emotional and spiritual experience centered on repentance, devotion, and seeking closeness to Allah.

However, despite the significance of the pilgrimage, many first-time travelers encounter challenges due to a lack of preparation or guidance. Religious scholars and experienced pilgrims say careful planning can make the journey more organized, comfortable, and spiritually rewarding.

Here are 15 important recommendations for pilgrims preparing for Hajj or Umrah:

1. Choose an Experienced Religious Guide

Pilgrims, particularly first-timers, are advised to travel under the supervision of a knowledgeable and experienced Muallim or guide familiar with the rituals of Hajj and Umrah. Experts warn that inadequate guidance can create confusion regarding religious obligations.

2. Verify the Travel Agency

Travelers using private Hajj services should ensure the agency is licensed and affiliated with the Hajj Agencies Association of Bangladesh (HAAB). Pilgrims are also encouraged to review previous customer experiences and visit agency offices directly to confirm hotel distance from the Haram, package costs, and assigned guides.

Authorities further advise pilgrims to verify Hajj registration information through official SMS confirmation and the government portal at:
Bangladesh Hajj Portal

3. Select Packages Carefully

Package prices can vary significantly, largely depending on hotel proximity to Masjid al-Haram. Hotels located closer to the mosque are generally more expensive. Pilgrims with health limitations or difficulty walking may prefer nearby accommodation, while others may opt for more affordable hotels farther away.

4. Manage Saudi Riyals Wisely

Pilgrims are encouraged to carry necessary Saudi currency without exchanging excessive amounts at once. Exchange services are widely available in Makkah and Madinah, though rates may differ. Many travelers also rely on trusted expatriates for currency exchange. Keeping money in a secure neck pouch or waist bag is strongly recommended.

5. Organize Bags and Footwear Properly

Experts suggest carrying:

• A small pouch for passports, money, and important documents
• A lightweight shoulder bag for prayer mats, umbrellas, and water bottles
• Minimal luggage inside the Haram to avoid security restrictions

6. Purchase SIM Cards Early

Travelers planning short Umrah visits are advised to buy Saudi SIM cards at the beginning of their trip to avoid costly recharge fees later. Many packages include local talk time and internet access.

7. Prepare for Getting Lost

Pilgrims should:

• Save fellow travelers’ phone numbers
• Carry hotel cards at all times
• Contact their group immediately if separated

8. Carry Essential Supplies

Recommended items include fragrance-free soap, tissues, lotion, umbrellas, folding prayer mats, reusable water containers, razors, and compact travel bags.

9. Bring Necessary Medication

Pilgrims are encouraged to bring personal medicines from their home country, along with basic first-aid supplies that may also help fellow travelers.

10. Separate Luggage by Purpose

Travel experts recommend using:

• Checked baggage for heavy items
• Hand luggage for essential belongings
• A small bag for documents and valuables

11. Understand Ihram Timing

Pilgrims travelling directly to Jeddah or Makkah must enter Ihram before crossing designated Miqat boundaries. Scholars advise delaying the formal intention of Ihram until flight confirmation to avoid unnecessary hardship caused by delays.

12. Prepare for Mina

Pilgrims staying in Mina, Muzdalifah, and Arafat should pack lightly due to extensive walking and outdoor conditions. Only essential items, water, and dry food are recommended during these stages.

13. Collect Pebbles in Muzdalifah

Pilgrims should gather approximately 70 pebbles in Muzdalifah for the symbolic stoning ritual at Jamarat. Small mats or bedding sheets are also recommended for the overnight outdoor stay.

14. Avoid Large Bags at Jamarat

Authorities often restrict large bags near the stoning area. Pilgrims are advised to carry only small pouches containing the required pebbles.

15. Special Allowances for Women, Elderly, and Sick Pilgrims

Islamic scholars note that women, elderly individuals, and people with illnesses may receive certain concessions during Hajj rituals, including:

• Using wheelchairs during Tawaf
• Exemption from brisk walking rituals
• Flexible arrangements for Mina and Muzdalifah stays
• Combining stoning rituals on selected days
• Completing certain rituals in advance where permitted

Religious experts say thoughtful preparation, physical readiness, and proper guidance can significantly reduce stress during Hajj and Umrah, allowing pilgrims to focus more fully on worship and spiritual reflection.

Hamad International Airport has announced an expansion of its flight operations in anticipation of heightened passenger demand during the upcoming summer travel period. The move comes as Qatar Airways continues to strengthen its worldwide route network.

Airport authorities stated that 26 partner airlines are currently operating services to and from Doha, contributing to the expected rise in travel activity over the coming months.

Passengers have been advised to contact their respective airlines directly for ticket reservations and the latest schedule updates. The airport also confirmed that all operational arrangements are being coordinated closely with aviation authorities and airline partners to maintain efficient and uninterrupted travel services during the peak season.

Travellers were further encouraged to visit the airport’s FAQ section for information regarding newly added airlines and updated operational guidance.

Source: Qatar Tribune

Kuwait’s acting director general of civil aviation, Duaij Al-Otaibi, has said that Kuwait International Airport is secure and prepared to fully resume operations once clearance is granted by the relevant authorities.

Speaking to Kuwait News Agency on Monday, Al-Otaibi stressed that safeguarding passengers, personnel and infrastructure remains the primary concern guiding all operational decisions. He described the current security arrangements as precautionary steps aimed at maintaining high protection standards, acknowledging that they may cause some inconvenience to travellers.

He noted that the airport is gradually restoring activity levels to those seen before the recent Iranian aggression, with improvements underway in both performance and operational efficiency. Passenger flow is being carefully managed to ensure smooth movement from parking areas to terminals.

As part of temporary security protocols, boarding gates are not currently in use, with passengers transported to aircraft by bus. Authorities are reviewing the situation and may reinstate standard boarding procedures following further assessment.

Additional support has been introduced for elderly passengers and those with disabilities, including electric wheelchairs and improved access through elevators. Al-Otaibi added that the main terminal entrance is expected to reopen in the coming days after coordination with key bodies such as the Ministry of Interior and the General Fire Force.

He said the measures form part of a wider safety strategy, supported by weekly operational reviews to facilitate a phased return to normal services.

Al-Otaibi also revealed that the airport’s control tower—considered among the most advanced globally—was targeted during the recent attack, with damage recorded through audio and video documentation. The incident drew condemnation from the International Civil Aviation Organization. He added that radar and technical systems were quickly repaired through coordinated efforts and leadership support.

Senior officials, including His Highness Sheikh Ahmed Abdullah Al-Ahmed Al-Sabah, conducted on-site inspections to assess the damage and commended the level of preparedness and compliance with safety standards. The Civil Aviation Authority, led by Sheikh Hamoud Mubarak Al-Hamoud Al-Sabah, implemented emergency and security protocols in coordination with multiple agencies, reflecting a high level of institutional cooperation.

Al-Otaibi also acknowledged the role of Sheikh Abdullah Ali Abdullah Al-Salem Al-Sabah in overseeing readiness efforts, as well as the support of the General Authority of Civil Aviation for facilitating Kuwaiti airline operations through access to Saudi airports. He said such collaboration underscores the importance of Gulf cooperation in maintaining aviation continuity.

Highlighting Kuwait’s long-term ambitions, Al-Otaibi pointed to the country’s advanced infrastructure, including a modern third runway, an upgraded control tower and sophisticated air navigation systems, positioning it as a potential regional aviation hub. He also cited Kuwait’s strategic location and connectivity projects, including links to Mubarak Al-Kabeer Port, as key factors supporting its development as a logistics centre.

Looking ahead, he outlined plans to establish a dedicated aviation academy to train national talent, noting the increasing participation of young Kuwaitis in the sector and the need to expand training programmes to meet future demand.

Despite ongoing regional tensions, Al-Otaibi said the security situation remains stable. He advised passengers to follow official guidance, avoid congestion, arrive at the airport at least three hours before departure and refrain from making unnecessary bookings that could disrupt operations.

Source: QCAA NEWS

Nigeria’s government has imposed limits on jet fuel prices and approved credit arrangements for airlines in an effort to prevent widespread flight disruptions linked to sharply rising fuel costs, according to an official document reviewed by Reuters.

The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) set indicative retail price ranges for aviation fuel between 1,760 naira and 1,988 naira per litre in Lagos, and between 1,809 naira and 2,037 naira in Abuja. These benchmarks are based on pricing data from April 17 to April 23.

Despite the pricing framework, the regulator cautioned that volatility in global energy markets, including tensions involving the United States and Iran, as well as higher supplier costs, could still push prices upward.

Neither the NMDPRA nor the aviation ministry immediately responded to requests for comment.

The policy shift follows emergency discussions triggered by airline warnings that jet fuel prices had surged by more than 270%. Operators said the spike had forced fare increases and raised concerns over potential capacity reductions.

Last week, President Bola Tinubu approved a 30% relief measure on airline debts owed to aviation agencies. He also directed fuel suppliers, airlines, and regulators to agree on a “fair” pricing structure within 72 hours to avoid disruption across the aviation sector.

As part of the agreed measures, airlines will be granted a 30-day credit period for fuel purchases. The aviation ministry has also been tasked with mediating outstanding debt disputes between operators and petroleum marketers, according to the document.

A technical committee established by the NMDPRA recommended that fuel marketers supply airlines directly within the approved price band, a move intended to reduce costs and improve transparency in the supply chain.

The committee also called for engagement with Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals regarding recently increased premiums applied to international pricing benchmarks used for jet fuel.

Additional recommendations include stricter validation of fuel distributors operating in airport zones, which could reduce the number of authorised suppliers, as well as exploring the inclusion of jet fuel under Nigeria’s naira-for-crude programme to limit airlines’ exposure to foreign exchange fluctuations.

(Exchange rate used: $1 = 1,360.5 naira)

Source: ZAWYA

The Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) has introduced a new Aviation Consumer Welfare Directive designed to enhance passenger rights and improve how complaints and disputes are managed within the emirate’s aviation sector.

The initiative establishes a structured regulatory system that defines the relationship between passengers, airlines, and licensed travel agencies. It also introduces formal mediation processes, giving the regulator a more active role in resolving conflicts and protecting consumer interests.

Under the new framework, passengers will have access to a clearer and more transparent process for lodging and monitoring complaints. The DCAA will act as an intermediary, facilitating communication between involved parties and overseeing resolution procedures. Authorities say the system is intended to strengthen accountability and build greater trust across the aviation ecosystem.

The directive applies to all passengers travelling through Dubai’s airports, as well as airlines and authorised travel agents operating in the emirate. By formalising operational and service expectations, the framework aims to reduce disputes and improve consistency in handling passenger concerns.

The DCAA will be responsible for implementing and supervising the system, including establishing regulatory standards, enabling mediation channels, and ensuring compliance among all stakeholders. The broader objective is to improve service quality and enhance the overall passenger experience across Dubai’s aviation sector.

Source: ZAWYA

The Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) has introduced a new Aviation Consumer Welfare Directive designed to reinforce protections for airline passengers and improve how complaints and disputes are handled within Dubai’s aviation industry.

The directive sets out a unified regulatory structure defining the relationships between passengers, airlines, and licensed travel agents. It also introduces a formal mediation process intended to resolve disagreements more efficiently, reflecting a more proactive regulatory approach to consumer protection.

Under the new system, passengers will have access to a transparent mechanism for lodging complaints and tracking their progress. The DCAA will act as a facilitator between relevant parties, ensuring communication is streamlined and disputes are addressed through structured resolution channels. Authorities say the initiative is intended to strengthen trust and accountability across the aviation sector.

The framework covers all passengers travelling through Dubai’s airports, along with airlines and authorised travel agencies operating in the emirate. By formalising operational relationships, it aims to improve transparency and reduce friction in the handling of customer grievances.

The DCAA will oversee the implementation of the directive, including the establishment of regulatory standards, mediation processes, and compliance monitoring. The authority stated that the broader objective is to enhance service quality and improve the overall passenger experience across Dubai’s aviation network.

Source: ZAWYA