The first batch of 436 pilgrims from the three southern provinces of Thailand arrived here Thursday night. These pilgrims flew in here by Thai International Airways, Egypt Air and Royal Jordanian Airways. Thai Consul General Praphat Chantaharn, other consulate officials in Jeddah and Atef Al-Fasi, Saudi Ministry of Haj's supervisor at Haj Terminal, welcomed the guests of Allah. Approximately 13,000 Thai pilgrims will perform Haj this year, Chantaharn said. – SG __