Fri 21 June 2019:
Emirates will be broadening its services to Jeddah and Medina with an additional 46 flights to help facilitate travel for Hajj pilgrims heading to and from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The airline is expecting an influx in travel from top inbound destinations, such as South Africa, Pakistan, the United States, Senegal, the UK, Nigeria, Indonesia and the Ivory Coast. Additional flights will operate between 27 July and 22 August and will run in parallel with Emirates’ regularly scheduled flights to Jeddah and Medina.
To support this annual pilgrimage, Emirates is braodening its services and expanding its specialised offering to travellers holding a valid Hajj visa. This is to ensure a “comfortably aligned journey with the requirements and traditions of this significant event”. Fouad Caunhye, Regional Manager of Emirates Southern Africa says, “As one of the most significant events in the Muslim faith, Emirates ensures that all Hajj travellers are treated to world-class service and a seamless journey to the Holy City of Mecca. Our additional flights will cater to the increased demand of inbound air travel into the Kingdom during this holy period, as well as provide tailored onboard services that will make this once-in-a lifetime experience that much more memorable.”
Hajj-centric onboard services
On the ground in Dubai, Emirates has commissioned a dedicated team to manage check-in and transfers for the seamless movement of Hajj passengers leaving from and returning to Dubai.
In the air, extra provisions will be made to accommodate Hajj traveller needs, such as performing ablutions and other cleansing rituals as well as advising passengers when they have entered Al Miqat zones to ensure readiness for Ihram (the point when pilgrims enter a state of sanctity) through dedicated passenger announcements.
Additionally, Emirates will provide extra blankets and unperfumed hot towels for Hajj passengers. Emirates’ award-winning ice system will also feature a special Hajj video that covers safety, formalities and information about performing the Hajj pilgrimage. Pilgrims will also be able to tune into the Holy Quran channel during their journey. On flights from Jeddah, Hajj passengers can bring up to five litres of holy water (Zamzam), which will be placed in special areas in the cargo hold.
-Source: Euro News
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