The Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCCA), which is headed by Fred Bamwesigye as Director General, has issued guidelines for travellers ahead of the Hajj season, which is expected to attract a large number of pilgrims travelling to Mecca via Entebbe International Airport from May 19 to 29, 2025.
“Uganda Civil Aviation Authority informs all departing passengers that from May 19 to 29, 2025, a large number of pilgrims will be travelling to Mecca via Entebbe International Airport. The pilgrims are usually accompanied by well-wishers, which sometimes leads to traffic congestion,” the UCCA said in a statement issued Monday, May 19, 2025.
Key Guidelines
According to the statement from the UCCA, all pilgrims intending to travel to Mecca for Hajji should observe the following guidelines;
Arrive Early
Travelers are advised to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before their scheduled departure time to avoid missing their flights.
Designated Area for Pilgrims
A designated area has been reserved in the car park for pilgrims to gather and undergo necessary procedures.
Vehicle Access
To avoid congestion in the parking lot, only vehicles with official access stickers will be allowed into the airport car park.
Accompanying Persons
Other accompanying persons will be directed to a designated holding area to manage congestion and ensure smooth operations.
Managing Congestion
The Authority notes that pilgrims are usually accompanied by well-wishers, which can lead to traffic congestion. To mitigate this, the airport has put in place measures to manage the flow of traffic and ensure a smooth experience for all users.
Planning Ahead
The UCCA also advises passengers scheduled to depart during this period to plan for adequate time to avoid the risk of missing their flights. By arriving early and following the guidelines, travellers can minimise delays and ensure a stress-free journey.
Boost to Business
The Hajj season presents a significant opportunity for Entebbe International Airport to showcase its capabilities and provide excellent service to pilgrims and other travellers.
With careful planning and management, the airport is well-equipped to handle the expected influx of passengers and provide a smooth travel experience.
Entebbe International Airport is expecting a substantial number of passengers during this period, which will likely lead to increased revenue from airport services, retail, and hospitality.