PAOG procures new bags for Ghanaian pilgrims amid delay at Jeddah Port

The Pilgrims Affairs Office of Ghana (PAOG) has procured new travel bags for Ghanaian pilgrims in Saudi Arabia following delays in clearing thousands of pilgrims' bags from the Jeddah Islamic Port ahead of the commencement of return flights to Ghana.

According to the Chairman of PAOG, Alhaji Abdul-Rauf Tanko Ibrahim, the decision was taken as an emergency measure to prevent disruptions to the scheduled return of Ghanaian pilgrims from this year's Hajj pilgrimage.

In a press release issued on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, PAOG explained that efforts to clear nine containers carrying more than 6,000 pilgrims' bags at the Jeddah Islamic Port have so far been unsuccessful.

The office noted that inquiries into the delay suggest that heightened regional airspace restrictions, peak seasonal traffic, and ongoing developments within the region may have contributed to logistical challenges affecting cargo movement and clearance procedures.

To ensure that pilgrims are not inconvenienced and that return flight schedules remain on course, PAOG has purchased replacement bags in Jeddah. Distribution of the newly acquired bags to Hajj agents is already underway for onward delivery to pilgrims.

The office expressed optimism that the original bags would eventually be cleared from the port in the coming days.

Alhaji Tanko Ibrahim appealed to pilgrims, their families, and the general public to remain calm and cooperative as authorities work to address the situation.

He described the procurement of the new bags as a practical and timely intervention aimed at safeguarding the smooth repatriation of Ghanaian pilgrims.

Meanwhile, Ghana's first return flight from Saudi Arabia to Tamale is scheduled for June 12, 2026, barring any unforeseen circumstances.

PAOG reiterated its commitment to ensuring the welfare of Ghanaian pilgrims and minimizing disruptions during the return phase of the Hajj operation.