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.

The Sultanate of Oman is expanding its aviation links with African countries through new air service agreements and the launch of direct routes, strengthening connectivity between the Middle East and Africa.

Botswana

Oman recently signed an Air Services Agreement with Botswana to strengthen air connectivity and establish a framework for passenger and air cargo services between the two countries.

The agreement covers operational and technical matters and allows airlines to operate an unlimited number of direct flights. It also enables carriers to expand their networks and establish codeshare arrangements, supporting closer cooperation in air transport.

Angola

Oman and Angola have also signed an agreement covering cooperation in aviation. The arrangement provides for unlimited direct flights, network expansion and codeshare partnerships, alongside regulatory and technical cooperation between the two sides.

Rwanda

SalamAir has launched a new route connecting Muscat with Kigali, strengthening aviation links between Oman and Rwanda while supporting broader economic cooperation between the two countries and the wider Middle East.

Somalia

SalamAir began operating flights to Mogadishu on September 3, establishing a direct connection between the capitals of Oman and Somalia.

The new route is expected to facilitate business travel, family visits and stronger business-to-business links while creating an additional travel corridor between Oman and East Africa.

SalamAir already operates services to Nairobi, Port Sudan and Cairo in Africa, while Oman Air connects Oman with Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar.

Together, the agreements and new routes reflect Oman’s efforts to broaden its aviation network across Africa and create additional opportunities for tourism, trade, business and passenger travel.

Source: Oman Daily Observer

Saudi Arabia is preparing to host the 2026 Airports Forum as the Middle East enters a period of major investment, technological development and infrastructure expansion across the aviation sector.

The forum will take place on November 30 and December 1, 2026, at the Riyadh Front Exhibition and Conference Center. It will feature four concurrent conferences covering global aviation issues, investment, airport design and construction, and women’s participation in aviation.

The event comes amid rapid growth in the region’s aviation infrastructure. According to the latest Airports Council International (ACI) data cited by organisers, airport development spending across the Middle East has reached around $180 billion, while air connectivity in the region is expected to increase by 21% in 2025.

The forum programme will examine issues including artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, advanced air mobility, airport investment, smart infrastructure, sustainability, passenger experience and future workforce requirements.

Global aviation issues

The Global Aviation Issues Conference will focus on airport security, air traffic management and emerging technologies affecting aviation operations.

Sessions will examine artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, passenger and baggage screening, operational resilience and workforce development. Discussions will also cover airspace capacity, automation, international coordination and the integration of drones and electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft.

Participating organisations include the International Civil Aviation Organization, GACA, MATARAT Holding, Riyadh Air, Etihad Airways, IATA, SITA, the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority and the Saudi Civil Aviation Academy.

Investment and financing

The Future of Aviation Investment Conference on November 30 will examine financing requirements for the next phase of aviation development in Saudi Arabia and the wider region.

Aligned with Saudi Vision 2030, discussions will cover public-private partnerships, airport concession models, investor confidence and infrastructure investment. The programme will also examine capital trends across airports, airlines, air cargo, aircraft leasing and maintenance, repair and overhaul services.

Sustainable aviation finance, green bonds, ESG-linked investment and funding opportunities for eVTOL and drone infrastructure will also feature.

Organisations taking part include the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors in Saudi Arabia, daa International, Sofia Airport, the National Center for Privatization & PPP, Oman Airports and Avilis.

Airport design and construction

The Airport Design and Construction Conference on December 1 will focus on infrastructure requirements for the aviation sector’s expansion.

Topics will include new airports, terminal development, digital twins, automation and connected passenger journeys. Speakers will also address how airport projects can balance capacity, operational efficiency, sustainability, technology and changing passenger expectations.

The conference will explore the role of local identity in airport design and challenges associated with large-scale developments, including procurement, risk management, phased construction and maintaining airport operations during expansion.

Participants include King Salman International Airport, Gensler, Mott MacDonald, Riyadh Air, Foster + Partners and Grimshaw.

Women and the aviation workforce

The Women in Aviation General Assembly will conclude the forum on December 1, with discussions focused on leadership, workforce development and women’s participation in the aviation industry.

Sessions will examine the role of Saudi Vision 2030 in supporting women in aviation, alongside artificial intelligence, digital transformation, future skills, talent development, gender diversity and career opportunities.

Focus on Hajj aviation operations

The programme will also feature a dedicated session on the management of large-scale Hajj operations at Jeddah airports.

Experts in planning, airport operations, passenger experience, communications and emergency response will discuss the systems and practices used to manage the movement of millions of pilgrims during the annual Hajj season.

Industry dialogue in Riyadh

Daksha Patel, Events Director at Niche Ideas, said the aviation industry was undergoing significant changes across airport financing, infrastructure, technology, operations and workforce development.

She said the Airports Forum would bring together international industry figures and potential partners to exchange knowledge, address common challenges and explore opportunities linked to the region’s aviation expansion.

As Saudi Arabia continues to pursue its aviation objectives under Vision 2030, organisers said the four conferences will provide a platform for decision-makers and specialists in investment, technology, operations, design, policy and talent development.

The event is also expected to bring aviation leaders, investors and experts to Riyadh to discuss regional and global developments and potential areas for cooperation.

Source: AJEL.SA

Global engineering and professional services firm WSP has secured the design contract for the expansion and development of King Fahd International Airport in Dammam, Saudi Arabia.

The project will cover the expansion of passenger terminals, facility upgrades and improvements to airport entrances and access roads. The scope also includes new baggage handling systems, digital services and terminal wayfinding solutions designed to simplify passenger journeys and improve comfort, Dammam Airports said.

Under the master plan, the airport is expected to handle more than 19.3 million passengers annually by 2030. Capacity will then be expanded in phases to reach 32 million passengers per year in response to future demand.

The development also targets annual air cargo capacity of more than 600,000 tonnes and an aircraft operating capacity of 77 movements per hour. These improvements will be supported by extensive upgrades to airport infrastructure, runways and general aviation facilities.

The agreement was signed by Dammam Airports CEO Eng. Mohammed Al Hassany and Dean McGrail, President of WSP for the Middle East and Asia.

Al Hassany described the contract as an important milestone in the airport’s development and said Dammam Airports remains focused on modernising its facilities and expanding capacity.

He added that the project will use modern design solutions and smart technologies to improve the passenger experience while accommodating expected growth in both passenger and cargo traffic.

The expansion is also intended to strengthen King Fahd International Airport’s role as a major international gateway connecting Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Region with destinations around the world.

Source: TradeArabia

Egypt has advanced the tender process for the management, operation and development of Hurghada International Airport under a public-private partnership (PPP), the Ministry of Civil Aviation said.

Ten consortia submitted applications to participate in the tender, with seven qualifying for the next stage following an assessment of their applications and supporting documents by a specialised evaluation committee. The review was conducted according to the criteria outlined in the request for qualifications (RFQ).

The update was announced during a meeting between Egyptian Minister of Civil Aviation Sameh El-Hefny and Ary Naïm, the International Finance Corporation’s (IFC) Division Director for North Africa and the Horn of Africa. The meeting took place on the sidelines of the El Alamein International Air Show (EIAS 2026).

El-Hefny said the project supports the government’s efforts to strengthen Egypt’s civil aviation sector, improve passenger services and enhance the overall travel experience.

He highlighted the importance of the PPP programme in improving operational efficiency and modernising airport infrastructure and services in accordance with international standards and best practices.

The minister said the partnership model is intended to maximise value for the state while drawing on specialised technical and management expertise. State ownership and full sovereignty over the airport’s assets will remain unchanged, he added.

El-Hefny also welcomed the IFC’s technical and advisory assistance, noting the organisation’s international experience in structuring and implementing PPP projects.

Naïm reaffirmed the IFC’s commitment to working with Egypt’s Ministry of Civil Aviation to help complete the tender process in line with international standards.

The seven qualified consortia are now being informed about the next phase, which will involve issuing request for proposals (RFP) documents and setting the timetable and procedures for bid submissions, subject to approval in the forthcoming stage.

In July, the National Bank of Kuwait (NBK) cited an IFC regional director as saying that Egypt was expected to announce the first results of its airport public offering programme before the end of the year.

Source: Arab Finance

A shortage of air traffic controllers caused flight cancellations and significant delays at Sydney Airport on Friday morning, according to Airservices Australia, the federal agency responsible for managing the country’s air traffic.

Airservices Australia introduced temporary measures to control traffic flows and safely manage demand after an unexpected staffing shortfall. The restrictions resulted in around 14 inbound flight cancellations, while some flights were delayed by more than an hour.

The disruption adds to a series of operational challenges facing Australia’s busiest airport as Airservices Australia continues to deal with staffing shortages. It also comes as authorities investigate several recent near-miss incidents involving aircraft at the airport.

Peter Curran, Deputy Chief Executive of Airservices Australia, told a Senate committee examining the aviation sector that unexpected absenteeism had affected staffing levels.

“Last night, at relatively short notice, we had some unplanned absenteeism, which we weren't able to recover from,” Curran said. He added that having one fewer controller in the tower that morning had contributed to significant delays.

The traffic management measures were withdrawn at 8:15 a.m. local time, or 2215 GMT on Thursday, after operating conditions improved. Minor delays persisted through the remainder of the morning, but flight schedules had largely returned to normal by the afternoon.

An Airservices Australia spokesperson said the agency was coordinating with airlines to minimise delays and reduce the impact on passengers.

Sydney has 49 air traffic controllers, but 41 are required for normal operations. Curran said eight controllers were unavailable because of long-term absences, leaving limited capacity to handle unexpected staffing shortages.

“We've had some staffing challenges in the last number of weeks since July ... and we have some moments where that can become somewhat acute. Today's an example of that,” he said.

Airservices Australia said it was working to recruit additional air traffic controllers and improve arrangements for bringing in extra staff when operational pressures increase.

Source: Reuters