Separate baggage handling for Zamzam water and dedicated arrival arrangements are among the measures in place as Dubai Airports prepares to receive returning Hajj pilgrims between 30 May and 2 June.
The airport is handling departures first, with flights operating until 23 May on Emirates, Saudia, flydubai, and flynas. The Official Dubai Government Delegation left on 21 May. In total, Dubai Airports expects to process more than 3,600 pilgrims this season — accounting for nearly 59% of all UAE-based Hajj travelers.
An operational readiness plan developed with airline and government partners underpins the effort. Coordinating agencies include Dubai Police, the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA), Dubai Customs, the Dubai Corporation for Ambulance Services (DCAS), dnata, Dubai Duty Free, the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, the Roads and Transport Authority, and the Dubai Health Authority.
On the ground, pilgrims will find dedicated check-in counters, gates assigned to minimize walking distances, complimentary gift packs, multilingual Guest Experience Ambassadors, support desks, prayer rooms, and Ihram changing facilities. Elderly travelers and those needing additional assistance will have access to expanded wheelchair services, on-site health screenings, and stationed ground assistance teams. DCAS has also increased its on-ground presence to provide proactive medical support throughout the terminals.
Pilgrims heading out are advised to arrive at least four hours before departure and to travel with all required documentation, including Hajj permits and vaccination certificates, in line with guidance from relevant authorities.
