SONGKHLA, Thailand – Deputy Interior Minister Jeseth Thaiseth has presided over a send-off ceremony at Hat Yai International Airport in Songkhla province as Thai Muslim pilgrims departed for the Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia.
Family members gathered in large numbers today (Apr 18) to bid farewell to the first group traveling to Mecca for the 2026 Hajj, creating an atmosphere filled with emotion and religious devotion. Senior officials, along with community and Islamic leaders, attended the ceremony to support the pilgrims.
Jeseth said authorities are providing assistance throughout the journey, including coordination on air travel, cost reductions, and general support. Expanded airline participation has helped lower fares and improve convenience, while health precautions have been advised due to high temperatures expected in key pilgrimage areas.
A total of 7,037 Thai pilgrims are registered for this year’s Hajj, with 4,668 scheduled to depart from Hat Yai across 13 flights between mid-April and late May. The first flight left with about 342 passengers as families gathered to see them off. Officials also supported pilgrims during departure, assisting with boarding, providing essential supplies, and managing logistics to facilitate a smooth journey. (NNT)
