Damascus, SANA – Damascus Endowments Director Samer Beirakdar and Saudi Ambassador in Damascus Dr. Faisal al-Mujfel toured Damascus International Airport on Monday to inspect the facilities and services provided to Syrian pilgrims traveling for Hajj.
In a press statement inside the airport’s Hajj hall, Beirakdar confirmed that all necessary arrangements have been made for departing pilgrims. He noted that for the first time in 14 years, the full Syrian Hajj journey is departing directly from Damascus.
He also highlighted Saudi Arabia’s facilitation efforts, including allowing Turkish and Uzbek aircraft, contracted for pilgrim transport, to fly directly to Saudi Arabia without requiring transit stops.
Beirakdar explained that approximately 7,000 pilgrims will travel via Turkish airlines and 14,000 via Uzbek airlines, while the remainder will use flights from neighboring countries. He stated that Syrian airlines were not used this season due to the need for high-capacity aircraft that enable pilgrims to transport larger amounts of luggage conveniently.
Expressing hope for future improvements, Beirakdar said he looks forward to next year’s Hajj travel taking place via Syrian and Saudi airlines. He also noted that this year’s pilgrim accommodation will be in 15 residential towers near the holy sites, making it easier for pilgrims to perform their rituals.
Meanwhile, Alaa Salal, Director of Public Relations at the Syrian Civil Aviation Authority, stated that a joint emergency operations room has been set up between the authority and the Ministry of Endowments to ensure the best possible services for pilgrims.
He mentioned the preparation of two dedicated halls, fully equipped with essential infrastructure to facilitate a smooth and efficient travel process. Salal added that special teams are available to assist individuals with special needs, and a volunteer group is present to guide pilgrims and help them navigate airport services. Additionally, a specialized airport workforce has been assigned to ensure quick and smooth operations for departing pilgrims.
Dr. Mohammad Akram Maatouq, Damascus Health Director, stated that the directorate, in cooperation with the Ministry of Endowments has launched a health campaign that began last Wednesday to administer vaccinations for departing pilgrims through the International Vaccination Center in Damascus and two medical points at the airport, where health cards are issued to travelers.
Dr. Khuzama Zureiq, head of the airport health center, noted that the center has a team of physicians available around the clock to provide emergency medical assistance to pilgrims, along with a dedicated ambulance for urgent cases.
Manar /Ruaa al-Jazaeri
