The first group of 35 Ugandan Muslim pilgrims fully sponsored by President Museveni for the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage has safely arrived in Medina, Saudi Arabia.
The pilgrims travelled through Anwaary Travel and were led by Imam Ahmad Sulaiman Kyeyune.
A second group of 35 pilgrims is expected to depart from Uganda on Tuesday, 12 May 2026, through Tawakal Travels, while the final group will leave on 17 May 2026 to embark on the sacred journey to Mecca.
The two travel agencies were entrusted by State House to coordinate Hajj services for the sponsored pilgrims.
Muslim pilgrims visit Medina primarily to pray at Al-Masjid an-Nabawi (the Prophet’s Mosque), pay respects at the tomb of Prophet Muhammad, and explore important Islamic historical sites before proceeding to Mecca for the main Hajj rituals.
Hajj, which is the fifth pillar of Islam, is one of the most significant religious obligations for Muslims worldwide.
Last week, President Museveni sponsored a total of 150 Muslims for the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca, Saudi Arabia. The delegation is being coordinated by Haji Faruk Kirunda, the Special Presidential Assistant in charge of Press and Mobilization and Deputy Press Secretary to the President.
Each fully sponsored Hajj package is valued at approximately USD 5,500.