MUSCAT, OCT 7
The Ministry of Awqaf and Religious Affairs (MoARA) has announced that a new air transport route has been adopted for transporting pilgrims from the Sultanate of Oman to the Holy Lands to perform the Haj rituals during the 1448 AH Haj season.
The decision, announced after coordination with the concerned authorities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, as well as the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) in Oman and the airlines, will be put into practice to carry pilgrims to the Holy Lands and back. The ministry has advised 'Haj operators' to complete the necessary arrangements and facilitate Haj flights for pilgrims.
Haj operators as well as this year's Haj applicants have been informed of the decision, and the ministry is holding meetings with them to explain the approach and the reasons behind it.
TRAVEL LIGHT
Meanwhile, with the Umrah season in full swing and preparations for the next Haj season already underway, the ministry, along with the Ministry of Haj and Umrah in Saudi Arabia, has renewed its call to pilgrims to travel light.
"At the Grand Mosque in Mecca, every step counts, and carrying less luggage helps you perform your rituals with greater ease and peace of mind," an ongoing campaign said.
Officials say excessive baggage not only causes physical strain but also slows down movement in highly crowded areas such as the Mataf, the Masaa and the pathways between Mina, Arafat and Muzdalifah.
"Our guidance to Omani pilgrims has always been clear — pack only what is essential. The lighter your bag, the easier your worship will be," an official from the Ministry of Awqaf and Religious Affairs told the Observer. "During Haj days, pilgrims have to walk long distances and often on foot. Keep necessary items only — one extra Ihram, a prayer mat and essential medicines. Leave the rest at your hotel in Mecca."
The Saudi Ministry of Haj and Umrah has also issued a similar advisory as part of its awareness guide. "A key proposal centres around limiting the amount of luggage carried during the rituals. Excessive baggage can cause significant physical strain, increasing the risk of injury, particularly given the extensive walking involved. Maintaining a light load will help safeguard energy levels and facilitate ease of movement for all visitors," the ministry said in its guide.
Omani Haj companies have also introduced facilitation in baggage procedures, weight and ground services as part of additional service packages, while prioritising air travel to ensure the comfort and safety of pilgrims.
Veteran Haj operators in Oman echoed the same advice. "Most pilgrims overpack and regret it later. Food is available, shops are everywhere, and clinics are free. The focus should be on worship, not luggage," said a representative of Murshid, a Haj operator.
The ministries advise pilgrims to use a medium-sized hard-shell suitcase, not exceeding 70 cm, with proper locks and luggage tags, and a lightweight backpack for the days of Umrah and Haj.
Essential items recommended include Ihram garments, comfortable slip-on sandals, unscented toiletries, a small prayer mat, copies of documents, and medications in original packaging with a medical report in Arabic and English. Pilgrims are also advised not to carry scented products during Ihram, new footwear, excess cash, expensive jewellery, or bulky bags.
"Commit to the specified gathering and travel time, minimise baggage and bring only essentials. This will ensure a more organised and comfortable experience for all participants," he further said.
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