First group of Museveni-sponsored Muslim pilgrims arrive in Medina

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The first group of 35 Ugandan Muslim pilgrims who were fully sponsored by President Yoweri Museveni for this year's Hajj, have arrived safely in Medina, Saudi Arabia.

The second of 35 groups will also travel from Uganda today, May 12, 2026, whereas the last group will set off on May 17, to embark on the sacred journey to Mecca.

The first group, which travelled through Anwaary Travel, was led by Imam Ahmad Sulaiman Kyeyune, while the second group will travel through Tawakal Travels. Both Umrah and Hajj travel agencies were entrusted by the State House to offer Hajj services to the pilgrims.

Muslim pilgrims visit Medina primarily to pray at the Prophet’s Mosque (Al-Masjid an-Nabawi), pay respects at the tomb of Prophet Muhammad, and explore Islamic history, before moving on to Mecca for the actual Hajj rites. Hajj is the 5th Pillar of Islam.

Last week, President Museveni sponsored a total of 150 Muslims for the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca, Saudi Arabia.

The delegation of pilgrims is led by the Special Presidential Assistant in charge of Press and Mobilisation, also deputy press secretary to President Museveni, Haji Faruk Kirunda.

Each Hajj offer, fully covered by President Museveni, costs $5,500.