Eid Al Adha UAE: What Hajj pilgrims departing from Dubai International Airport must keep in mind

Dubai: Dubai Airports, the operator of Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Dubai World Central (DWC), announced Thursday that it has launched an “extensive operational plan” at DXB to facilitate the smooth departure and return of pilgrims participating in Hajj 2025.

According to DXB, approximately 3,100 pilgrims are set to depart from the world’s busiest hub on 28 dedicated flights operated by Emirates, flydubai, Saudia, and flynas this year. The official delegation from the Government of Dubai will commence their journey on the first official Hajj flight from Terminal 3 on June 1.

Dubai Airports, in collaboration with the oneDXB community, including Dubai Police, General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs-Dubai (GDRFA), Dubai Customs, Dubai Corporation for Ambulance Services, dnata, and airline partners, has implemented the following measures:

Facilities for Hajj pilgrims:

Dedicated check-in counters across Terminals 1, 2, and 3.

Prayer rooms and changing facilities in all terminals for Ihram preparation.

Multilingual Guest Experience Ambassadors and Hajj Committee support desks.

Designated baggage carousels for the secure handling of Zamzam water.

What travellers must keep in mind?

Pilgrims are advised to arrive at the airport at least four hours before departure and to carry all required travel documents, including passport, Emirates ID, Hajj permit, and vaccination certificate.

"These journeys are personal, profound, and often once in a lifetime," said Essa Al Shamsi, Senior Vice President of Terminal Operations at Dubai Airports. "Through the efforts of our people and the oneDXB community, we want to ensure every pilgrim departs with confidence and returns with ease."

The pilgrims are expected to return between June 9 and 12. “Preparations are in place to provide a warm welcome, coordinated baggage support, and a small token of appreciation upon arrival,” according to airport authorities

The Hajj season also coincides with the summer travel peak and the Eid Al Adha holidays, during which DXB anticipates a significant increase in guest volumes.