Doha: Pilgrims from Qatar have started arriving back home following the completion of their Hajj rituals, according to an announcement by the Ministry of Endowments (Awqaf) and Islamic Affairs. The return process commenced on Monday via coordinated convoys operated by Qatar Airways and Saudi Airlines.
In its official statement, the Ministry confirmed that the repatriation efforts would continue into Tuesday, with the full return of all Qatari pilgrims expected to conclude by Wednesday. The process is being carried out under the close supervision and logistical support of the Qatari Hajj Mission and its various operational units.
The Ministry emphasized that throughout their spiritual journey, pilgrims have received comprehensive care and attention to ensure their safety and well-being until their return to Qatar.
Ibrahim Mohammed Al Nema, representing the Ministry of Endowments in the Qatari Hajj Mission, affirmed that the pilgrims’ return marks the successful completion of their Hajj journey. He noted that they had performed all the rituals, including the stoning of the Jamarat during the days of Tashreeq in Mina, either on the 12th or 13th of Dhul-Hijjah, in alignment with Islamic teachings.
“But whoever hastens [to depart] within two days, there is no sin upon him; and whoever delays, there is no sin upon him – for him who fears God,” he cited from the Holy Quran.
Al Nema also highlighted the role of the Communications and Support Unit, which maintained real-time coordination with mission officials to manage pilgrim movements efficiently. The unit tracked pilgrim departures from Mina for the Jamarat, ensuring schedules and safe designated routes were followed.
Support teams on the ground, identifiable by banners of the Qatari Hajj Affairs Office, helped pilgrims navigate various stages of the rituals, particularly during high-traffic moments like stoning the Jamarat and transitioning from Mina to Makkah. This was part of the mission’s broader goal of offering seamless support until each pilgrim’s safe return.
Dr. Khaled Abdel Hadi, Head of the Medical Unit of the Qatari Hajj Mission, spoke about medical innovations introduced this year. He announced the deployment of a mobile ambulance unit – a rotating service designed to accompany pilgrims as they left the Mina camps for the Jamarat.
These mobile units remained with the pilgrims through the stoning rituals and their return, offering crucial assistance, especially to vulnerable groups such as women and the elderly.
Dr. Abdel Hadi added that two stationary ambulance posts were set up along Jamarat Road, equipped to handle emergencies. Additionally, three paramedics using electric scooters and wearing HT Rescue Jackets—a compact wearable ambulance solution—were mobilized to offer rapid, on-the-spot care while staying in constant contact with the base units.
Meanwhile, the Coordination and Follow-up Unit oversaw the pilgrims’ departure from Makkah following their Farewell Tawaf, working in tandem with airport authorities at King Abdulaziz Airport and Hajj Terminal in Jeddah to streamline departure procedures.
These cohesive efforts from the Qatari Hajj Mission and its support teams send a clear message: the Mission remains fully committed to serving Qatar’s pilgrims from departure to return, ensuring their safety and comfort every step of the way through their sacred journey of faith.