Travel

Haj Preparation for 2025 Using the Suvidha App from India

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) has allotted a substantial quota of 175,025 spots to India for Haj-2025. In a significant move towards streamlining the process for aspiring pilgrims, Shri Kiren Rijiju, Union Minister for Minority Affairs and Parliamentary Affairs, has announced the opening of Haj applications.

This year marks a new milestone as applications are being accepted not only through the traditional Haj Committee of India website but also via the newly introduced Haj Suvidha App.

This initiative aims to simplify the application process and provide greater accessibility for prospective pilgrims. Alongside the app, a dedicated helpline and active social media channels have been launched to offer support and address any queries from applicants.

One of the most notable reforms in the Haj administration is the introduction of the Ladies without Mehram (LWM) category. For Haj-2024, a record 4,558 women benefited from this provision, allowing Muslim women aged 45 and above to perform Haj without a male companion. This category will continue to be a focus, with efforts to make Haj more accessible and convenient for these pilgrims in 2025.

The early initiation of the Haj-2025 preparation process is underscored by the Haj Review Meeting held on July 19, 2024, and the announcement of the Haj Policy-2025 on August 5, 2024. These steps reflect the Government of India’s commitment to securing optimal arrangements for accommodation, transport, and logistics in KSA. The government aims to leverage this early start to enhance the overall pilgrimage experience.

In a significant change from previous years, the age requirement for pilgrims to be accompanied by a companion has been adjusted. For Haj-2025, it will be mandatory for pilgrims aged 65 or above to have a companion. haj committee of india flight schedule 2024

This new criterion replaces the earlier age threshold of 70 years, recognizing the challenging nature of the pilgrimage and the harsh climatic conditions in KSA. Priority in allotment will be given to this age group, ensuring that all first-time pilgrims aged 65 or above will receive guaranteed seats.

Another major administrative change is the elimination of the requirement for depositing physical passports with the Haj Committee of India for 4-5 months. haj committee of india flight schedule 2024 This adjustment is expected to streamline processing and reduce bureaucratic hurdles.

In preparation for Haj-2025, passport offices across India have been instructed to expedite the issuance of passports for Haj purposes. Additionally, the government continues to prioritize healthcare services for pilgrims, both prior to their departure and during their stay in Saudi Arabia.

Hajj flights from India – schedules and updates:Click here

Airlines

British Airways Unveils Its Brand-New First Class Cabin for the Airbus A380

British Airways has introduced its brand-new First Class seat, blending sleek design with expert British craftsmanship. Reflecting modern British luxury travel, this new cabin is part of the airline’s Airbus A380 retrofit plans, set to take flight in mid-2026.

The updated First Class cabin has been crafted to feel like a modern luxury hotel in the sky, complete with cozy touches and thoughtful British details.

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Designed by top experts from across Great Britain and Ireland—including London, Glasgow, West Yorkshire, Kilkeel, and Dublin—the seat reflects the best of British design and quality.

Features and Comforts
The new First Class seat is ultra-wide at 36.5 inches, with a bed length of 79 inches for ultimate comfort. It includes:

A multi-purpose ottoman and stowable table.
A 32-inch 4K TV screen.
Adjustable mood lighting with modes like “relax,” “dine,” and “cinema.”
A cocooned 60-inch curved wall for privacy while maintaining a spacious feel.

Passengers traveling together can enjoy a shared experience with a sliding divider that creates a lounge-like space. The stowable tables also allow for “buddy dining,” where two people can dine together.

The cabin’s flowing curves, inspired by the iconic Concorde wings, create a welcoming and stylish environment. Additionally, passengers can now wheel their luggage directly into their personal storage space, making settling in easier.

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British Airways carefully considered customer feedback when designing this cabin. The seat includes practical storage and features like a fully rectangular bed for home-like comfort. Every detail, from usability to elegance, has been designed to enhance the travel experience.

British Airways is proud to be the only UK-based European airline offering a First Class product across the Atlantic. british airways premium economy and First Class travelers enjoy exclusive perks such as stylish seats, access to luxury lounges, fast-track security, and the First Wing at Heathrow. The airline ensures a premium experience from booking to landing.

This cabin upgrade is part of British Airways’ £7 billion investment in improving customer experiences. The airline has already introduced over 120 initiatives, including new short-haul seats, free onboard Wi-Fi messaging, and refreshed lounges worldwide.