The inaugural Hajj flight, carrying 270 prospective pilgrims, departed from Islamabad International Airport today, marking the commencement of this year”s pilgrimage under the expanding Road to Makkah initiative.
According to a report today, Federal Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, Sardar Muhammad Yousuf, along with senior officials, bid farewell to the pilgrims at the airport.
Addressing the gathering, Minister Yousuf stated that Pakistan had completed its Hajj preparations within the stipulated timeframe, attributing this success to the support of the Saudi government. He assured that the nation is committed to providing optimal facilities for the pilgrims.
He further elaborated on the “Road to Makkah” project, highlighting its primary benefit of allowing pilgrims to complete Saudi immigration and other essential formalities at their departure airport. This streamlined process is designed to ensure a significantly smoother arrival experience in Saudi Arabia.
Notably, the initiative has seen expansion this year, now encompassing Lahore in addition to its existing operations in Karachi and Islamabad. This broader reach is anticipated to benefit more than 95,000 pilgrims.
Beyond the simplified immigration, pilgrims will also receive e-SIM cards, facilitating continuous communication with their families back home. Other provisions include modern, comfortable accommodation tents and access to high-speed rail networks connecting the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah, aiming to ease inter-city travel.
The Minister conveyed his profound gratitude to Saudi King Salman Bin Abdul Aziz, Crown Prince Muhammad Bin Salman, and Hajj Minister Tawfiq Bin Fawzan al-Rabiah for their unwavering support and guidance in orchestrating the Hajj preparations.
Concluding his address, he extended congratulations to the pilgrims on embarking on their sacred journey and encouraged them to uphold Pakistan”s honour and dignity throughout their pilgrimage.