Pilgrims Depart from Istanbul Airport for Holy Lands with Prayers
Istanbul, Turkey – April 25, 2026 – As part of the 2026 Hajj Organization by the Directorate of Religious Affairs, Hajj pilgrims were sent off from Istanbul Airport to the holy lands with heartfelt prayers. The pilgrims gathered at Istanbul Airport to make their way to Saudi Arabia to perform their religious duties.
The farewell program, conducted with the support of the Directorate of Religious Affairs teams, included prayers and well wishes as the group embarked on their sacred journey to the holy lands.
“May Allah Grant This to Everyone”
Filiz Temiz, one of the Hajj candidates, expressed her profound excitement, stating that she had been awaiting this moment for many years. “I am very excited. It really feels like a dream. We have been waiting for 8 years. We got in from the reserves. I am very happy. May Allah grant this to everyone. I am feeling mixed emotions. I entrust my children to Allah,” she said.
Ibrahim Temiz also conveyed his excitement, saying, “I am very excited. I thank everyone who did not leave us alone. I hope to see you all again in 39 days. We couldn’t sleep tonight, and we are setting off without sleep.”
Details of the Hajj Organization
The 2026 Hajj Organization aims to facilitate the pilgrimage for thousands of Turkish citizens. The Directorate of Religious Affairs provides comprehensive support, including logistical arrangements, guidance, and spiritual assistance throughout the journey. This year’s departure from Istanbul Airport marks a significant milestone for many pilgrims who have patiently waited for their turn to fulfill this important religious obligation.
The Hajj, an annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca, Saudi Arabia, is a mandatory religious duty for all able-bodied Muslims who can afford it. It is one of the five pillars of Islam and is considered a profound spiritual experience.
The pilgrims will spend approximately 39 days in the holy lands, performing various rituals and prayers. The journey is often described as a life-changing experience, strengthening faith and fostering a sense of unity among Muslims worldwide.
Emotional Farewells and Hope for a Blessed Journey
The atmosphere at Istanbul Airport was filled with emotion, as pilgrims bid farewell to their families and loved ones. Many shared stories of their long anticipation and the sacrifices made to undertake this sacred journey. The support from the Directorate of Religious Affairs and the community was evident, providing comfort and encouragement to the departing pilgrims.
Families and friends gathered to offer their last goodbyes, with many expressing hopes for a safe and blessed pilgrimage. The prayers offered at the airport underscored the spiritual significance of the event, reinforcing the collective faith and devotion of the community.
The departure of the Hajj pilgrims from Istanbul Airport is a recurring event that highlights Turkey’s commitment to facilitating religious duties for its citizens. Each year, thousands embark on this journey, contributing to the rich tapestry of global Islamic pilgrimage.
The Directorate of Religious Affairs continues to work diligently to ensure that the Hajj experience is smooth, safe, and spiritually enriching for all participants. Their efforts are crucial in managing the complex logistics involved in organizing such a large-scale international event.
The next update on the pilgrims’ journey will be provided by the Directorate of Religious Affairs as they continue their spiritual mission in the holy lands.
