Entebbe Airport Warns of High Traffic as Over 1,600 Ugandans Head for Hajj 2025
Entebbe, Uganda | May 19, 2025 – The Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA) has issued a public travel advisory ahead of the peak Hajj pilgrimage season, as over 1,600 Ugandan pilgrims prepare to depart for Mecca between May 19 and May 29, 2025.
The advisory warns of increased passenger traffic and potential airport congestion at Entebbe International Airport, urging all travelers to arrive at least three hours prior to their scheduled departures.
“Passengers are advised to plan for adequate time to avoid the risk of missing their flights,” UCAA stated.
New Measures to Manage Pilgrim Traffic
To manage the high volume of travelers and accompanying well-wishers, UCAA has implemented the following measures:
- A special assembly area within the airport car park has been designated for pilgrims to receive briefings before departure.
- Only vehicles with official airport access stickers will be allowed into this area.
- Well-wishers will be directed to a separate holding zone to reduce congestion at the terminals.
These steps are designed to ensure smooth facilitation and prevent disruptions to airport operations during this critical travel period.
Growing Hajj Participation from Uganda
Uganda’s participation in the annual pilgrimage has been steadily growing, with 1,300 pilgrims recorded in 2023 and 1,600 in 2024. Hajj, one of the five pillars of Islam, continues to draw thousands of Muslims from around the world each year.
UCAA’s Final Word
The aviation authority concluded the advisory with a message of gratitude:
“We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.”https://www.ugandaliving.com/1736/entebbe-airport-issues-travel-advisory-ahead-of-hajj-2025-pilgrimage-rush/
