As the season of Hajj approaches, the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA) has issued an alert to all air travelers scheduled to depart between May 19 and 29, 2025, urging them to arrive early at Entebbe International Airport to avoid missing their flights.
The advisory follows expectations of increased congestion at the airport due to the large number of Muslim pilgrims embarking on their spiritual journey to Mecca.
The annual pilgrimage traditionally draws not only travelers but also a significant number of well-wishers, leading to traffic build-up and delays at airport entry points.
In a statement, UCAA emphasized the importance of timely planning.
“Passengers scheduled to depart during this period are advised to plan for adequate time to avoid the risk of missing their flights.”
The authority reminded all international travelers to arrive at least three hours before their flight, as check-in counters typically close an hour before take-off.
To better manage the flow of people and vehicles, UCAA has implemented several measures. Pilgrims will assemble in a designated area within the airport’s car park, where they will be briefed and guided through the departure process.
Access to the main parking area will be restricted to vehicles bearing official stickers, while accompanying well-wishers will be directed to a separate holding area to prevent overcrowding.
These measures are aimed at maintaining smooth airport operations and ensuring timely departures for all passengers. UCAA has appealed to the public to adhere to the temporary guidelines and cooperate fully during this busy travel period.
“We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we work to provide a safe and efficient experience for all airport users,” the authority stated.
Get keywords and meta description
