The first pilgrims from Makhachkala started their Hajj to Mecca this early morning. Tens of thousands of Russians will visit, Vesti.ru reports.
The Dagestani Muslim Administration is helping them collect the necessary documents. Many are visiting the place for the first time. They will be taught the rules of behavior.
About 10,500 Dagestani pilgrims will make Hajj this year for free, according to a program of Senator Suleiman Kerimov. 90% of them are making their first Hajj. Everyone received cards with instructions, spokesman of the Dagestani Muslim Administration Kamil Mukhuchayev said.
The disorders in Arabic states resulted in the Federal Russian Tourism Agency and the Foreign Ministry banning visits to the states via ground transport. 160 flights for Hajj will be made from the Airport of Makhachkala.
Over 3,500 people from Chechnya, 200 from Kabardino-Balkaria will visit Mecca. Ingushetia will have 8 flights to Saudi Arabia, Yuga.ru reports.
