Hajj Committee of India Flight Schedule for 2025

Introduction

The Hajj Committee of India (HCoI) plays a pivotal role in organizing and facilitating the annual Hajj pilgrimage for Indian Muslims. A crucial aspect of this facilitation is the coordination of flight schedules to ensure the seamless transportation of pilgrims to and from Saudi Arabia.

Tenative Hajj Committee of India Flight Schedule

For Hajj 2025, the Ministry of Minority Affairs has outlined a tentative flight schedule to accommodate Indian pilgrims:

• Phase 1: Arrival in Madinah
  • Departure Dates: April 29 to May 15, 2025
  • Return Dates: June 12 to July 7, 2025
  • Estimated Number of Pilgrims: Approximately 51,301
• Phase 2: Arrival in Jeddah
  • Departure Dates: May 16 to May 30, 2025
  • Return Dates: June 21 to July 10, 2025
  • Estimated Number of Pilgrims: Approximately 69,660

These schedules are subject to final confirmation and may be adjusted based on logistical considerations and the final number of pilgrims.

Embarkation Points and Allocations for Hajj 2025

To ensure a smooth and organized departure process for Indian pilgrims traveling to Saudi Arabia for Hajj 2025, the Hajj Committee of India (HCoI) has designated multiple embarkation points (EPs) across the country. These embarkation points serve as departure hubs, allowing pilgrims to board their Hajj charter flights from locations closest to their region.

The allocation of pilgrims per embarkation point is divided into two phases based on their arrival destination in Saudi Arabia:

• Phase 1: Pilgrims traveling to Madinah first, before proceeding to Mecca.
• Phase 2: Pilgrims traveling directly to Jeddah, from where they are transferred to Mecca.

Below is the detailed embarkation point-wise allocation of pilgrims:

Major Embarkation Points for Hajj 2025

1. Ahmedabad (Gujarat)

✔ Phase 1: 5,000 pilgrims
✔ Phase 2: 7,910 pilgrims
✅ Significance:

• One of the key embarkation hubs for Western India.
• Serves pilgrims from Gujarat, Rajasthan, and parts of Maharashtra.
• Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport handles dedicated Hajj flights.

2. Bengaluru (Karnataka)

✔ Phase 1: 8,220 pilgrims
✅ Significance:

• Serves pilgrims from Karnataka and neighboring states.
• Flights depart from Kempegowda International Airport.
• Advanced pre-immigration clearance facilities make travel hassle-free.

3. Delhi (National Capital Region)

✔ Phase 1: 6,500 pilgrims
✔ Phase 2: 9,903 pilgrims
✅ Significance:

• One of the largest embarkation points in Northern India.
• Serves pilgrims from Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and parts of Uttar Pradesh.
• Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI Airport) Terminal 3 facilitates Hajj flights.

4. Hyderabad (Telangana)

✔ Phase 1: 2,000 pilgrims
✔ Phase 2: 7,128 pilgrims
✅ Significance:

• A major departure hub for pilgrims from Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and Odisha.
• Rajiv Gandhi International Airport operates direct flights to Saudi Arabia.

5. Kolkata (West Bengal)

✔ Phase 1: 3,000 pilgrims
✔ Phase 2: 6,288 pilgrims
✅ Significance:

• Serves pilgrims from West Bengal, Jharkhand, Bihar, and the northeastern states.
• Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport offers direct Hajj flights.
• Special assistance available for Bengali-speaking pilgrims.

6. Lucknow (Uttar Pradesh)

✔ Phase 1: 6,143 pilgrims
✅ Significance:

• Key departure hub for pilgrims from Uttar Pradesh, which has the largest Hajj quota in India.
• Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport facilitates smooth check-in for pilgrims.
• Simplified visa processing services for travelers.

7. Mumbai (Maharashtra)

✔ Phase 1: 10,500 pilgrims
✔ Phase 2: 16,391 pilgrims
✅ Significance:

• Largest embarkation point in India, handling the highest number of Hajj pilgrims.
• Serves pilgrims from Maharashtra, Goa, Madhya Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh.
• Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) Terminal 2 operates multiple direct Hajj flights daily.

8. Srinagar (Jammu & Kashmir)

✔ Phase 1: 4,008 pilgrims
✅ Significance:

• Dedicated Hajj terminal at Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport for Kashmiri pilgrims.
• Special assistance provided for elderly and first-time pilgrims.
• Weather and geopolitical factors may impact flight schedules.

Additional Embarkation Points for Hajj 2025

Apart from the major embarkation cities, the Hajj Committee of India may also facilitate Hajj flights from other smaller embarkation points, depending on demand and logistics. These include:

✔ Jaipur (Rajasthan) – Services pilgrims from Rajasthan and nearby states.
✔ Chennai (Tamil Nadu) – Departure point for South Indian pilgrims.
✔ Nagpur (Maharashtra) – Supports pilgrims from central India.
✔ Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh) – Serves as an embarkation hub for Madhya Pradesh pilgrims.
✔ Kochi (Kerala) – A significant point for Malayali pilgrims traveling to Mecca.

Key Considerations for Pilgrims Departing from Embarkation Points

✅ Flight Assignment Based on Location:

• Pilgrims are assigned to flights based on their registered embarkation point.
• Requests to change embarkation points are typically not allowed after selection.

✅ Hajj Flight Schedules:

• Each embarkation point operates multiple Hajj charter flights per day.
• Peak departure dates vary by embarkation point.
• Flights operate directly to Jeddah or Madinah, depending on the phase.

✅ Check-In & Immigration Procedures:

• Pilgrims are required to report to the airport 6-8 hours before departure.
• Saudi immigration pre-clearance is available at select airports, ensuring faster processing upon arrival in Saudi Arabia.

✅ Baggage Allowance Regulations:

• Each pilgrim is allowed two pieces of checked luggage (up to 23 kg each).
• Zamzam water allowance is granted on return flights.

✅ Medical & Special Assistance:

• Medical teams and assistance services are provided at embarkation points.
• Wheelchair and special care options are available for elderly and disabled pilgrims.

Final Notes on Embarkation Allocations

✔ The allocation of embarkation points is based on the Hajj quota assigned to each Indian state.
✔ HCoI continuously reviews embarkation arrangements, and allocations may be subject to changes or revisions.
✔ Pilgrims must coordinate with their respective State Hajj Committees for final flight schedules and embarkation details.

By understanding which embarkation point they will depart from, Hajj travelers can plan their journey efficiently and ensure a smooth transition from India to Saudi Arabia for their once-in-a-lifetime pilgrimage.

Airlines Operating Hajj Flights for Indian Pilgrims

The Hajj Committee of India (HCoI) collaborates with various airlines to facilitate smooth and efficient travel for Indian pilgrims undertaking the sacred journey to Mecca and Medina. For Hajj 2025, multiple airlines are expected to operate dedicated Hajj charter flights from designated embarkation points across India. These flights aim to provide direct, comfortable, and well-organized transportation to Saudi Arabia.

While the final list of airlines participating in Hajj 2025 will be announced closer to the pilgrimage season, the following carriers are expected to play a key role in handling Hajj operations:

1. Saudi Arabian Airlines (Saudia)

Saudi Arabian Airlines (Saudia) is the national carrier of Saudi Arabia and one of the primary airlines responsible for transporting international Hajj pilgrims. It has a long history of operating special Hajj flights and provides comprehensive services tailored for pilgrims.

✅ Key Features of Saudia’s Hajj Flights:
✔ Direct Flights – Operates nonstop flights from major Indian embarkation points to Jeddah and Medina.
✔ Hajj-Specific Services – Provides special meal services, religious announcements, and in-flight prayer facilities.
✔ Priority Immigration Services – Fast-tracked immigration and baggage handling for Hajj pilgrims upon arrival in Saudi Arabia.
✔ Generous Baggage Allowance – Pilgrims are allowed to carry two pieces of checked luggage (each up to 23 kg), with an extra allowance for Zamzam water on return flights.

Saudia is often the preferred airline for Indian Hajj pilgrims due to its well-established infrastructure and dedicated Hajj services at Saudi airports.

2. Air India

Air India, India’s flag carrier, has been a traditional partner for Hajj operations, playing a crucial role in transporting pilgrims under the Hajj Committee of India’s program.

✅ Key Features of Air India’s Hajj Flights:
✔ Dedicated Hajj Flights – Operates direct services from multiple Indian cities to Saudi Arabia.
✔ Comfortable Seating Arrangements – Ensures group seating so that pilgrims from the same embarkation point travel together.
✔ Medical Assistance – Provides onboard medical facilities and trained staff to assist elderly pilgrims.
✔ Cultural Sensitivity – In-flight announcements in multiple Indian languages and special meal options tailored for pilgrims.

Air India’s experience with handling large groups of Hajj pilgrims makes it a reliable choice for travelers under the government’s subsidized Hajj quota.

3. IndiGo Airlines

IndiGo, one of India’s largest low-cost airlines, may participate in Hajj charter services in 2025, providing an affordable and efficient travel option for pilgrims.

✅ Key Features of IndiGo’s Hajj Flights:
✔ Nonstop Services – Expected to offer direct flights to Jeddah and Medina from select embarkation points.
✔ Economical Fares – Provides a cost-effective alternative for private Hajj package travelers.
✔ On-Time Performance – IndiGo is known for its punctuality and reliability, ensuring minimal delays.
✔ Customizable Group Travel Options – May offer tailored group bookings for private Hajj operators.

If IndiGo participates in Hajj 2025 operations, it would offer an additional choice for private travelers who prefer budget-friendly flight options.

4. Flynas

Flynas, a Saudi low-cost carrier, has been expanding its international routes and is expected to be part of the Hajj airline roster.

✅ Key Features of Flynas’ Hajj Flights:
✔ Affordable Ticket Pricing – Competitive rates make it an attractive choice for pilgrims.
✔ Flexible Booking Options – Works with private Hajj tour operators to provide chartered services.
✔ Special Hajj Lounges – Offers designated airport lounges for pilgrims in Saudi Arabia.

Flynas is becoming an increasingly popular airline for Hajj and Umrah due to its affordability and expanding network.

5. Qatar Airways

Qatar Airways is another major international airline that could participate in Hajj 2025 operations, particularly for pilgrims traveling via private Hajj operators.

✅ Key Features of Qatar Airways’ Hajj Flights:
✔ One-Stop Connectivity – Offers Hajj routes via Doha, making it suitable for pilgrims who need connecting flights.
✔ Premium Services – Provides business-class upgrades, spacious seating, and enhanced in-flight experiences.
✔ Baggage Flexibility – Allows additional baggage, making it convenient for pilgrims carrying essentials.

Qatar Airways may not be used for government-subsidized Hajj travelers, but it remains an option for private tour operators offering custom Hajj packages.

6. Etihad Airways & Emirates

Both Etihad Airways (UAE national carrier) and Emirates have operated Hajj flights in the past and may continue to do so in 2025.

✅ Key Features of Etihad & Emirates for Hajj:
✔ Layover Convenience – Pilgrims can transit via Abu Dhabi (Etihad) or Dubai (Emirates) with smooth airport transfers.
✔ High-Quality Service – Both airlines provide top-tier in-flight services, meals, and prayer arrangements.
✔ Baggage & Zamzam Allowance – Allows additional baggage options, especially for Zamzam water.

While not the primary choice for government-organized Hajj flights, these premium airlines are often used by private Hajj travelers seeking added comfort and flexibility.

Final List of Hajj Airlines for 2025

The final selection of airlines for Hajj 2025 will be officially announced closer to the pilgrimage season. The Ministry of Minority Affairs and the Hajj Committee of India will finalize partnerships based on:

• Availability of direct flights from designated embarkation points
• Competitive pricing for government-subsidized Hajj packages
• Compliance with Saudi Hajj regulations and scheduling requirements
• Capacity to handle large volumes of Indian pilgrims efficiently

Government-sponsored pilgrims will be assigned specific airlines, while private Hajj travelers can choose from multiple options based on their budget and service preferences.

Pilgrims are advised to check official announcements from the Hajj Committee of India and their chosen tour operators for the most up-to-date information on Hajj flight bookings and airline allocations.

Important Considerations for Pilgrims

• Flight Assignments: Pilgrims are typically assigned to flights based on their embarkation point and the phase of their journey. Specific airline preferences may not be accommodated due to logistical arrangements.
• Luggage Regulations: Each airline has specific baggage policies. Pilgrims should adhere to the guidelines provided by their assigned carrier to avoid inconveniences.
• Health and Safety Protocols: Compliance with health advisories, including vaccinations and COVID-19 protocols, is mandatory for all pilgrims.

For the most accurate and updated information, pilgrims are advised to regularly consult the official Hajj Committee of India website and maintain contact with their respective State Haj Committees.

By staying informed and adhering to the provided guidelines, pilgrims can ensure a smooth and spiritually fulfilling Hajj experience in 2025.