Gaza – Ma’an – The first of four cohorts of 300 Gazans bound for Mecca left the Strip via Rafah crossing at 6am Friday, head of communications at the border Jaser Al-Mashukhy confirmed.

Once on the far side of the crossing pilgrims departed for the Al-A'rish airport, and authorities prepared for the second group of 300 to pass through.

Al-Mashyoukhy said 4,300 were granted permits for travel. The crossing will be open for the next six days to process pilgrims.

Egypt announced a state of alert and sent 30 buses to the Rafah crossing, which will transport travellers from the border to the Al-A'rish airport for their flights to Mecca.

Travellers reported smooth passage at both sides of the crossing.