Emirates and the Hajj

United Arab Emirates Airports are standing by for a massive increase in traffic generated by pilgrims taking part in the annual Hajj.

According to Gulf News Dubai International Airport is expecting 20,000 extra passengers from within the UAE and a further 35,000 passing through on transit from elsewhere. Abu Dhabi and Sharjah are planning for an extra 9,000 passengers and some extra flights are being scheduled by Regional Airlines.

This year the Hajj Pilgrimage to Meccais from December 29th to January 1st 2007. Over two million Muslims perform the Hajj each year.

The Hajj is a pilgrimage that every Muslim should make at least once in their lifetime. A number of ceremonies are involved in the Hajj. They are meant to symbolize aspects of the faith like brotherhood, unity and submission and also to commemorate the trials of the Prophet Abraham and his family.