What is the ruling on visiting pilgrims upon their return from Hajj, and was this custom present among the Companions, and is there a reward for the visitor in doing so?

Congratulating someone returning from a journey, greeting them, embracing them, shaking their hand, and preparing a feast called an-Naqee'ah, as well as welcoming and receiving them—all of this is good and desirable, especially for someone returning from Hajj or Ghazw (military expedition). The companions of the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, used to embrace each other when they returned from a journey. Among the recommended phrases for congratulating the returnee are: "Praise be to Allah who kept you safe" or "Praise be to Allah who reunited us through you." The one returning from Hajj is congratulated with the words: "May Allah accept your Hajj and 'Umrah, forgive your sins, and compensate you for your expenses." For the one returning from Ghazw: "Praise be to Allah who granted you victory, honored you, and strengthened you." It is desirable for the pilgrim to supplicate for the forgiveness of others, and it is desirable for others to ask him for that supplication, and this extends for forty days from his arrival.