Nepali pilgrims depart for Hajj, bid farewell by Home Minister and Saudi Ambassador

May 17, Kathmandu: The first batch of Nepali pilgrims left for Saudi Arabia to perform Hajj 1446 on Saturday evening from Kathmandu International Airport. Saudi Arabia’s Ambassador to Nepal, Saad bin Nasser Abu Haimed, was present to see them off, joined by Nepal’s Minister of Home Affairs, Ramesh Lekhak, and other officials.

Ambassador Abu Haimed welcomed the pilgrims, emphasising Saudi Arabia’s commitment to their comfort. He noted that the Saudi government, under King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, is fully dedicated to providing top-notch services to ensure a peaceful and spiritual Hajj experience.

Minister Lekhak bid farewell to the pilgrims, wishing them well on their sacred journey. Representing the Government of Nepal, he expressed gratitude to Saudi Arabia for its exceptional care and services to pilgrims worldwide. He praised the Saudi leadership for their efforts in ensuring a smooth Hajj with comprehensive facilities.

The farewell ceremony was also attended by Israa Mulla Miya, Chairman of the Hajj Committee, the Chairman of the Muslim Commission, and representatives from the Nepal Hajj Committee and Islamic associations.

The departure marks the beginning of this year’s Hajj season, with Nepali pilgrims joining millions globally in the annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca.