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.

Airlines operating in the Middle East are projected to move into collective losses in 2026 as escalating regional tensions, restricted airspace access and sharply higher fuel costs place significant strain on the sector, according to the latest outlook from the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

The industry body said that while carriers in other regions are also expected to see weaker profitability, the Middle East is likely to be the only region to post an overall net loss.

Across the global aviation industry, profits are expected to fall substantially. IATA forecasts net earnings declining from $45 billion in 2025 to $23 billion in 2026, with profit margins narrowing from 4.2 per cent to 2.0 per cent.

Willie Walsh, Director General of IATA, said the outlook has deteriorated due to conflict-related disruption in the Middle East and a significant rise in fuel costs. He noted that jet fuel prices have increased by nearly 70 per cent globally, forcing airlines to absorb higher operating expenses despite ongoing efficiency improvements and fare adjustments.

Walsh added that while all regions remain profitable, performance has weakened sharply across the board, except for the Middle East. He said Gulf carriers are operating under considerable uncertainty following major airspace disruptions linked to the onset of conflict, though they continue to maintain global connectivity despite financial pressure.

IATA estimates that global fuel expenditure will rise from $252 billion in 2025 to $350 billion in 2026, accounting for more than 31 per cent of total airline operating costs, compared with 25.4 per cent the previous year.

The projection is based on an average Brent crude price of $95 per barrel in 2026, up from $69 in 2025. Jet fuel is expected to average $152 per barrel, significantly higher than the previous year, while the spread between crude and jet fuel prices is expected to remain elevated.

Although airlines are hedging roughly one-third of their fuel needs, IATA warned that carriers remain exposed to sustained price increases and high refining margins.

Overall fuel consumption is forecast to remain steady at about 104 billion gallons in 2026, meaning that higher fuel prices are the primary driver of rising industry costs.

Walsh also highlighted that the sector’s financial resilience is under pressure, with average net profit per passenger expected to fall to $4.50, nearly half of the level recorded in 2025.

The Middle East is expected to be the most affected region, as geopolitical instability leads to capacity reductions, flight disruptions, and higher operating costs. Reduced transit traffic is also weighing on load factors, further increasing unit costs for airlines.

Despite these challenges, IATA said Gulf carriers continue to work to sustain global connectivity, even as financial headwinds intensify across the region.

Source: ZAWYA

Emirates SkyCargo, the freight arm of Emirates, has announced the launch of a new weekly dedicated freighter service to Almaty International Airport in Kazakhstan, with operations scheduled to begin on 16 June 2026.

The introduction of the Boeing 777F service marks the carrier’s first cargo destination in Central Asia. Operating from Dubai, the new route is expected to create a direct trade corridor that integrates the region more closely into Emirates SkyCargo’s global logistics network.

Almaty, Kazakhstan’s largest city, is emerging as a key commercial and logistics centre, serving as an important gateway for trade across Central Asia. The weekly Tuesday freighter service will offer more than 100 tonnes of cargo capacity each week, enabling the transport of goods such as electronics, perishable items, machinery, and other consumer products between Almaty and international markets via Dubai.

Badr Abbas, Divisional Senior Vice President of Emirates SkyCargo, said the new service aligns with the company’s role in facilitating global trade and reflects its strategy to expand into high-growth regions. He noted that Central Asia is experiencing strong economic development and that the new route will provide businesses in the region with improved access to international markets.

He added that the service will also enhance connectivity for global customers seeking efficient wide-body cargo solutions into a strategically important market, while supporting Dubai’s broader economic objectives under the D33 agenda and reinforcing its position as a global logistics hub.

Emirates SkyCargo continues to expand its freighter fleet in response to rising global demand. Since March 2026, the carrier has received four new Boeing 777 freighters, with six additional aircraft scheduled for delivery later in the year as part of its ongoing network expansion strategy.

Source: ZAWYA

Emirates President Tim Clark has cautioned that a prolonged conflict involving Iran could place weaker airlines under severe financial strain, with low-cost carriers likely to be the first affected.

Speaking on Tuesday ahead of the Berlin Air Show, Clark said extended disruption could lead to failures within parts of the aviation sector, echoing similar concerns expressed over the weekend by International Air Transport Association (IATA) Director General Willie Walsh.

Despite the challenges created by the conflict, Clark said Emirates has no plans to reduce operations. The airline intends to continue transporting passengers through its Dubai hub to destinations including India and Australia, while implementing operational measures such as carrying additional fuel when necessary.

Clark also highlighted Emirates' ongoing rollout of Starlink onboard internet services across its fleet, noting that customer demand had increased following the introduction of the connectivity upgrade.

He stressed that the state-owned carrier would maintain its current capacity levels and was not concerned about the added operational costs associated with the regional situation.

The Emirates chief also reaffirmed the airline’s interest in expanding its presence in Germany. He said demand for flights to Berlin remains strong and noted that the carrier has spent decades seeking approval to serve the German capital. Although Emirates has secured airport slots in Berlin, it is still awaiting regulatory clearance to begin operations there.

Addressing criticism from German carrier Lufthansa regarding alleged regulatory advantages enjoyed by Gulf airlines, Clark rejected the claims. He argued that Lufthansa had also benefited from government support and said the airline should compete independently rather than rely on political backing.

Emirates continues to pursue growth opportunities in key international markets while monitoring the impact of geopolitical developments on the global aviation industry.

Source: ZAWYA

Riyadh Air has announced the addition of five new destinations to its growing network, marking another milestone in the airline’s expansion strategy as it prepares for full-scale operations.

The Saudi carrier, owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), revealed on Monday that it will begin serving Cairo, Dubai, Jeddah, Madrid, and Manchester. The announcement coincides with the arrival of the first three Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft that will form part of the airline’s modern fleet.

According to the airline, the newly introduced routes are intended to strengthen links between Riyadh and key economic, tourism, and cultural centres across the region and beyond. Riyadh Air added that further destinations are expected to be announced in the coming weeks as it continues to expand its network.

The latest route launch follows the delivery of the carrier’s third aircraft, which arrived in Saudi Arabia on Monday. The addition is expected to enhance operational preparedness and support Riyadh Air’s long-term objective of connecting the Saudi capital with more than 100 destinations worldwide by 2030.

Services to Jeddah are scheduled to commence on June 14, followed by Dubai on June 18 and Cairo on June 25. Flights to Madrid are set to begin on July 17, while Manchester services will start on July 23.

The airline also confirmed that it has brought forward the launch of its inaugural London route from July 1 to June 10, 2026, following the earlier-than-expected delivery of new aircraft. Ticket sales through the carrier’s official channels are due to open later on Monday.

Riyadh Air said its Boeing 787-9 fleet will feature advanced cabin technology, upgraded onboard amenities and hospitality services designed to meet international standards, aiming to provide passengers with a premium travel experience.

Source: ZAWYA

Emirates and Real Madrid CF have agreed to extend their partnership until 2031, continuing one of the most high-profile sponsorship relationships in global football and reinforcing a collaboration that will span nearly two decades.

The airline has been associated with the Spanish club since 2011, with the partnership elevated in 2013 when Emirates became the official jersey sponsor. Under the renewed agreement, Emirates will remain the Official Main Sponsor and Official Airline Partner for both the men’s and women’s teams.

Its branding will continue to feature prominently on match jerseys, training gear, and staff apparel across major competitions, including La Liga, the UEFA Champions League, Copa del Rey, and the Spanish Super Cup. The renewed deal also secures the distinction of being the longest-running jersey sponsorship in La Liga history.

Beyond kit sponsorship, the agreement includes expanded brand presence at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, access to club training facilities, and continued use of the Emirates Lounge, a premium hospitality space designed for guests, partners, and customers. The collaboration also extends to Real Madrid’s youth system, supporting player development at grassroots level.

In addition, Emirates will maintain and deepen its involvement in basketball through a separate multi-year extension, under which it will serve as the Official Main Sponsor of Real Madrid’s basketball team until 2031.

Boutros Boutros, Executive Vice President for Corporate Communications, Marketing and Brand at Emirates, said the partnership reflects the airline’s long-standing engagement with football and its global fan base.

He highlighted that the collaboration has helped bring supporters closer to the sport through exclusive experiences and global fan engagement initiatives, while also strengthening Emirates’ presence in Spain.

Since launching its first flight to Madrid in 2010, Emirates has expanded its operations in the Spanish market, now operating five daily services across Madrid and Barcelona. The airline has also broadened its global connectivity via Dubai and introduced updated onboard products for passengers travelling to and from Spain.

Real Madrid President Florentino Pérez described the renewed agreement as a continuation of a strong and enduring relationship built over many successful years, noting the shared achievements between the two organisations.

Over the course of their partnership, Emirates and Real Madrid have collaborated on a range of marketing and fan engagement initiatives, including specially branded aircraft liveries, player-themed aircraft decals, matchday activations, and exclusive supporter experiences.

Emirates has also deployed dedicated aircraft for club-related charter operations, including Boeing 777 aircraft used for Spanish Super Cup travel between Madrid and Jeddah.

The airline maintains a broad portfolio of football sponsorships, which includes partnerships with Arsenal FC, AC Milan, Real Madrid CF, S.L. Benfica, and Olympique Lyonnais, along with a Platinum Partnership with FC Bayern Munich. It also serves as title sponsor of the Emirates FA Cup and supports the UAE Pro League.

Beyond football, Emirates’ global sponsorship strategy spans multiple sports, including tennis, rugby, basketball, sailing, cycling, golf, horse racing, cricket, and Australian Rules Football. The airline says its portfolio is designed to connect international audiences with major sporting events, clubs, and competitions worldwide.

Source: ZAWYA