Wednesday 10 / June / 2026
Muscat: Omani pilgrims have returned home after completing the Hajj pilgrimage, carrying with them profound spiritual memories and emotions that blend the joy of fulfilling Islam’s fifth pillar with a deep longing for the holy sites that hosted what many described as one of the most transformative experiences of their lives.
While each pilgrim’s journey was unique, their reflections shared a common theme: a life-changing experience that left a lasting impact on their hearts and souls.
Ali Al Washahi described performing Hajj as a blessing bestowed upon him by God, expressing his gratitude to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, its leadership, and all those who worked tirelessly to serve the Guests of Allah. “I must extend my deepest thanks to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, the dedicated security personnel, and everyone who contributed to serving the pilgrims,” he said.
Al Washahi also praised the Omani Hajj Mission and the organizers of his pilgrimage campaign, noting that their continuous
support, close follow-up, and efficient management helped pilgrims perform their rituals with ease, comfort, and a strong sense of spirituality.
For Ahmed Al Awadhi, the true success of the Hajj season was reflected not only in what pilgrims experienced firsthand but also in the dedication and hard work carried out behind the scenes.
He commended the Omani Hajj Mission, led by Ahmed bin Salih Al Rashdi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Endowments and Religious Affairs and Head of the Mission, highlighting the team’s field presence, detailed follow-up, and commitment to ensuring the well-being of Omani pilgrims throughout the pilgrimage.
According to Al Awadhi, the mission’s continuous visits and efforts to address pilgrims’ needs, often late into the night, reflected a clear vision that placed serving pilgrims at the forefront of its priorities.
He added that the mission’s achievements, including winning the prestigious “Labbaikum” Silver Award for Excellence in Serving the Guests of Allah this year, were a testament to the dedication and professionalism of its staff.
Offering a deeply personal reflection on the pilgrimage, Dr. Amal Al Balushi described Hajj as a journey that begins the moment pilgrims enter the state of Ihram, leaving behind worldly distinctions and answering the call of “Labbaik Allahumma Labbaik.”
She recalled the unique atmosphere of Mina, where strangers quickly became companions united by faith, and described the Day of Arafat as a profoundly moving experience during which “hearts weep before eyes do.”
Al Balushi said that Muzdalifah embodied the values of humility and equality, where pilgrims slept under the open sky, sharing the same ground regardless of status or background. She added that walking toward the Holy Kaaba after completing the rites carried an overwhelming sense of closeness to God and hope for forgiveness and mercy.
Yet, she noted, the most difficult moment was the Farewell Tawaf.
“The bodies depart, but the souls remain there,” she reflected. “They stay suspended between the Kaaba and its sacred surroundings, filled with longing and hope for another return.”
According to the latest report issued by the National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI), approximately 14,000 pilgrims from Oman performed Hajj in 2026. Omani nationals accounted for 97 percent of the total, while Muscat Governorate recorded the largest number of pilgrims at 3,397.
Air travel remained the preferred mode of transportation, with 78 percent of pilgrims traveling by air.
The Omani Hajj Mission departed the Sultanate on May 13 and oversaw services for Omani pilgrims in Makkah, Madinah, and the holy sites, ensuring that pilgrims were able to perform their rituals in a safe and well-organized environment.
Ahmed bin Salih Al Rashdi said the season proceeded according to the approved plan and timeline, with all Omani pilgrims completing their rituals under healthy and safe conditions. He highlighted the high level of coordination and integration between the mission and its partners in both Oman and Saudi Arabia.
He also revealed that preparations for the next Hajj season have already begun, reflecting the mission’s commitment to continuously improving services and enhancing the pilgrimage experience.
These efforts were recognized internationally when Oman, represented by the Omani Hajj Mission, received the Silver “Labbaikum” Award for Excellence in Services for the Guests of Allah, in recognition of its outstanding performance, quality standards, and commitment to pilgrim satisfaction.
As the pilgrims return home, they bring with them more than memories of a journey. They carry renewed faith, heartfelt gratitude, and a spiritual experience that will remain etched in their lives long after leaving the holy cities behind. For many, although they have returned physically, a part of their hearts remains in Makkah, longing for the day they may answer the call once again.
