In the early hours of Thursday, a private airline facilitated the departure of 150 Hajj pilgrims from Pakistan to Madinah, kicking off this year’s pilgrimage season. Despite the early hour, the flight took off promptly, just 15 minutes after its scheduled departure time, ensuring a smooth start to the spiritual journey for the pilgrims.
The Makkah Route Initiative, which streamlines immigration procedures for pilgrims at their country of departure, has been instrumental in reducing waiting times and ensuring a hassle-free entry process since its inception in 2019. This initiative has garnered high praise from pilgrims for its efficiency.
Today, a total of 11 flights carrying 2,160 Pakistani pilgrims are slated to land in Madinah. These flights, originating from major cities like Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, Multan, and Peshawar, mark the expansion of the Makkah Route Initiative to Karachi, Pakistan’s largest city, promising a smoother journey for pilgrims from both Pakistan and around the world.
Nawaf bin Said Al-Malki, Saudi Arabia’s ambassador to Pakistan, will personally bid farewell to the Pakistani Hajj pilgrims at both Islamabad and Karachi airports, underscoring the importance of the bilateral relationship between the two nations.
Upon their arrival in Madinah, the pilgrims will be warmly received by authorities from the Pakistan Consulate General and the Hajj Mission of the Ministry of Religious Affairs, ensuring a seamless transition into the next phase of their pilgrimage.
The Hajj flight operations will be carried out by five airlines, including Pakistan International Airlines, Saudi Airlines, Airblue, Serene Air, and Air Sial, with a total of 259 sorties planned to transport approximately 68,000 intending pilgrims from eight major cities in Pakistan to Jeddah and Madinah.
With a quota of 89,605 pilgrims allocated for each of the government and private schemes, along with additional quotas for sponsorship schemes, a total of 179,210 Pakistanis are expected to perform Hajj this year. The month-long flight operation, commencing today, aims to ensure a smooth and successful Hajj pilgrimage experience for all participants.
