ISLAMABAD: The “sacred journey” to the Hijaz-e-Muqaddas is set to formally commence from the federal capital on April 19, with the first Hajj flight departing from Islamabad International Airport.
While the nationwide flight operation begins on April 18, Sunday (April 19) marks a significant milestone for Islamabad, where thousands of pilgrims will embark on their journey through a unique and digitized travel experience.
According to a spokesperson for the Ministry of Religious Affairs, a special ceremony will be held at the airport to bid farewell to the first contingent. Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousaf, Saudi Ambassador to Pakistan Nawaf bin Said Al-Malki, and the Secretary of the Ministry of Religious Affairs will see off the pilgrims.
The ceremony is expected to reflect the deep-rooted Pak-Saudi brotherhood and the world-class facilities provided to the guests of Allah.
This year, 29,900 pilgrims from the Islamabad region will benefit from the “Route to Makkah” initiative via 129 flights. Under this project, pilgrims will undergo “dual immigration” (both Pakistani and Saudi) at Islamabad Airport. This facility eliminates the need for hours of waiting at Jeddah or Madinah airports, allowing for a seamless entry into the Kingdom.
Upon arrival in Saudi Arabia, pilgrims will bypass long queues and proceed directly to buses, while their luggage will be transported to their respective hotel rooms through an advanced automated logistics system.
Out of the total 119,000 pilgrims under the government Hajj scheme, a significant portion is designated for the federal capital. The operation, involving PIA, Saudi Arabian Airlines, and other private carriers, will continue until mid-May.
The Ministry of Religious Affairs has urged pilgrims departing from Islamabad to reach the airport at least four hours prior to their flight to ensure the timely completion of biometric and immigration processes under the ‘Route to Makkah’ project.
Furthermore, the ‘Pak Hajj’ mobile app has been updated to provide pilgrims with real-time information regarding their flights and accommodation blocks. –Agencies
