ISLAMABAD: More than 20,000 pilgrims returned to Pakistan from Saudi Arabia since August 17, 2019 after completing the Hajj pilgrimage, the Ministry of Religious Affairs said in a statement released on Wednesday.
“[The returnees include] 14,000 from the government quota and 6,000 who were using services offered by private tour and Hajj operators,” Imran Siddiqui, MRA spokesman said in a statement, adding that 100,000 others are still in Makkah.
He added that special flights – which began on August 17 to bring the 200,000 pilgrims back – will continue until September 15.
“Elaborate arrangements have been made on Pakistan’s 10 airports to welcome the pilgrims on their return,” Siddiqui said, adding that this year, major airports in the country had also stocked up on Zamzam water – as part of an initiative by the Kingdom – to distribute among pilgrims upon their arrival home.
Pakistan’s Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, Noor-ul-Haq Qadri lauded the Kingdom’s arrangements and hospitality extended to pilgrims during Hajj this year.
“We are thankful to King Salman, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Saudi ministries of Interior, Hajj and also the governor of Makkah for the best arrangements for Hajj this year,” Qadri said in a statement on August 15.
For the first time this year, a pre-immigration pilot program was launched at the Islamabad International Airport as part of Saudi’s Road to Makkah project which Pakistan had been included in on Prime Minister Imran Khan’s request.
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman had made the announcement during his historic visit to Islamabad in February this year.
The initiative was aimed at facilitating Hajj pilgrims by way of a faster immigration process which helped them save up to 10 hours of waiting time on their arrival in Saudi Arabia.
Over 20,000 Pakistani pilgrims return home from Hajj
Over 20,000 Pakistani pilgrims return home from Hajj
- 110,000 others are still in Makkah
- Specially designated flights to bring the Hajjis home will continue until September 15
Pakistan Pavilion inaugurated at Sharjah International Book Fair
- Pavilion features Pakistani publishers showcasing literary and cultural heritage
- Consul General urges community and visitors to support Pakistan’s publishing industry
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan inaugurated its national pavilion at the 44th Sharjah International Book Fair on Tuesday, marking the country’s participation in one of the world’s largest literary exhibitions as it seeks to highlight its publishing heritage, cultural traditions, and contemporary creative output.
The Sharjah International Book Fair is one of the largest book fairs in the Middle East and Asia, drawing hundreds of publishers, writers, scholars, students, and cultural organizations from across the region and beyond. Pakistan’s participation is seen as part of its efforts to strengthen cultural diplomacy and expand the international visibility of its literary and publishing sectors.
The Pakistan pavilion, located in Hall 6 – Stand N1 at the Sharjah Expo Center, features several well-known Pakistani publishing houses, including Qudrat Ullah Publications (noted for its printed editions of the Qur’an), Zia-ul-Qur’an Publications, and Paramount Books.
Inaugurating the pavilion, Hussain Muhammad, Consul General of Pakistan in Dubai, welcomed the participation of Pakistani publishers and exhibitors.
“Such platforms provide an excellent opportunity to highlight the diverse literary traditions, cultural richness, and creative potential of Pakistan,” he was quoted as saying in a statement by the Pakistan Press Information Department.
The Consul General also conveyed appreciation to His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah, noting his “visionary efforts in promoting art, culture, literature, and academic excellence” in the emirate and internationally.
During his visit, the Consul General toured several official pavilions, including those representing Saudi Arabia, Oman, Sharjah Government institutions, and Abu Dhabi.
He also commended Sarmad Khan of Urdu World Books for establishing a dedicated stall promoting Pakistani literature, and encouraged the Pakistani community in the UAE, visitors, and students to attend and engage with the pavilion’s offerings.
The book fair will continue at the Sharjah Expo Center through the coming week.
