Jerudong: This year, Brunei Darussalam has been selected by the Government of Saudi Arabia as one of the countries that will benefit from the implementation of the Makkah Route Initiative. This initiative aims to facilitate and expedite the process of entry for the country's Haj pilgrims to Saudi Arabia, allowing for the completion of immigration procedures at the Brunei International Airport. The announcement was made by the Minister of Religious Affairs during a Doa Selamat and get-together ceremony with this year's intending Haj pilgrims at the Bridex Banquet Hall, Jerudong.

According to Radio Television Brunei, Yang Berhormat Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Awang Haji Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Awang Haji Othman emphasized the challenges faced by the Brunei Darussalam Haj Management in completing all Haj matters according to the timeline set by the Ministry of Haj and Umrah, Saudi Arabia. Intending Haj pilgrims are advised to comply with the contingency plan and all instructions issued by the country's Haj management in the event of any emergency while in the Holy Land.

This year, one thousand intending Haj pilgrims will perform the Haj in the Holy Land. His Excellency Saleh Abdulkarim Al-Shiha, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia designate to the country, was also present at the ceremony. The event aimed to honor the intending Haj pilgrims and to pray for their protection and safety during their pilgrimage.