The first group of Muslim pilgrims from Kosovo departed for the holy city of Mecca, Saudi Arabia, on the afternoon of Friday, May 15, 2026. This departure marks the beginning of the journey for a total of 1,576 Kosovar believers scheduled to perform the Hajj this year.
The departure took place at the “Adem Jashari” International Airport, where dozens of men and women, many dressed in the traditional white ihram, were seen off by emotional family members and friends.
Voices from the Pilgrimage
Among the travelers were experienced religious leaders and first-time pilgrims:
- Imam Hakif Hoti: Traveling for the 12th time, this year as a group leader, Hoti emphasized that while the first time is the most emotional, the ritual feels new every time. He challenged the misconception that Hajj is only for the elderly: “These obligations are for those who have the means… God compensates those expenses financially and spiritually.”
- Imam Baki Imeri: Departing from the Muhaxherëve Mosque in Pristina for his sixth trip, Imeri is traveling with his wife and serving as a bedel (performing Hajj on behalf of others) for the parents of one of his congregants. He described the journey as a divine honor: “Taking this path is an honor. Do not lose this chance if you have the physical, mental, and material means.”
Logistics of the 2026 Journey
According to the Islamic Community of Kosovo (BIK) and reports from Anadolu Agency:
- Total Pilgrims: 1,576 believers from Kosovo will travel in several groups starting from Friday and continuing through the following days.
- Departure Point: All flights are organized from Pristina International Airport.
- Destination: The groups will land in Saudi Arabia to begin the rituals associated with one of the five pillars of Islam.
The Hajj pilgrimage is a central spiritual event for Kosovo’s Muslim majority, and the 2026 season sees a significant number of citizens participating as global travel and religious quotas continue to stabilize.
