By Abdullahi Yusuf

1. Max Air Flight VM263 departs Jeddah to Bauchi at 09:01hrs with 536 pilgrims, bringing Bauchi’s total returnees to 9,109 on 22 flights.

2. Air Peace Flight APK7905 lifts 290 pilgrims and 26 officials to Abuja, comprising Kogi (282), Taraba (6), Kwara (1), and Edo (1).

3. Flynas Flight XY9016 departs Jeddah to Lagos with 423 pilgrims and 5 officials as Lagos continues phased returns.

4. NAHCON, States set to meet GACA for additional air slots, aiming to fast-track return airlifts. Flynas remains the only airline flying twice daily.

5. FCT Pilgrims Board begins refund for overpaid Hady fees, compensating pilgrims after cost savings from sacrificial ram procurement.

6. Saudi Hajj Ministry launches 9-language e-survey for pilgrims, seeking feedback on Hajj 2025 experience as part of Vision 2030 service reforms.

7. 7 Umrah companies suspended over transport violations, with bank guarantees liquidated to fund alternate arrangements for affected pilgrims.

8. Alkauthar Travels concludes Hajj 2025 return airlift, expresses gratitude to clients for patience and trust during the pilgrimage season.

9. First Hajj returnees arrive in Srinagar, personally received by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. Remaining 13 flights from Saudi Arabia to begin June 26.

10. Pakistan to begin early registration for Hajj 2026, aligning with Saudi directives for advance planning under both public and private schemes.

11. Did you know? Hajj 1447 AH is scheduled from 8 to 12/13 Dhul‑Hijjah, corresponding to May 25–May 29 with optional departure until May 30, 2026

12. Fun fact: The sacred Day of Arafahfalls on 9 Dhul‑Hijjah, i.e., May 26, 2026, marking the spiritual core of Hajj.

13. Did you know? Saudi Arabia has already started early planning and contracts for Hajj 1447 AH, focusing on health, safety, and pilgrim welfare.

14. Fun fact: The Hajj & Umrah Conference is scheduled for November 2025, allowing global partners to prepare for the 1447 AH season.

15. Did you know? Registration for UAE pilgrims for Hajj 1447 AH opens in September 2025, suggesting similar timelines for other nations.

16. Fun fact: The final Hajj rites concluded more recently than usual, with operations wrapping up around June 9, 2025, in 1446 AH—preparations for 1447 AH began immediately after.