ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s religious affairs ministry announced on Wednesday that it has approved visas for 120,000 Hajj pilgrims under the government scheme, adding that the pre-Hajj flight operations will begin as per schedule from Apr. 18.
The announcement comes following reports on social media about delays in Pakistan’s Hajj schedule amid flight disruptions in the Middle East due to the ongoing US-Israel war against Iran. Tehran’s retaliatory strikes against Gulf countries with US bases in the region have disrupted key air corridors since Feb. 28.
Around 179,210 pilgrims from Pakistan will perform Hajj this year, according to the religious ministry. Of these, around 120,000 pilgrims will travel under the government scheme, while the rest will go through private tour operators. Multiple airlines, including the Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) and Saudia Airlines will operate Hajj flights back and forth from Saudi Arabia.
“After meeting all deadlines set by the Saudi government ahead of time, Pakistan’s Hajj operations will formally begin on April 18, when the first flight carrying pilgrims will depart for Saudi Arabia,” the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony (MoRA) said in a statement.
It said visas for 120,000 pilgrims selected under the government scheme have been approved by the government, adding that the accommodation for pilgrims in Makkah and Madinah, allocation of Maktab and transportation facilities have also been finalized.
The ministry urged pilgrims to use the “Pak Hajj 2026” mobile app to access information regarding their flights, departure timings and airports.
“The app will not only provide real-time flight updates but will also serve as the sole authentic source for accommodation details in Makkah and Madinah, as well as other important announcements,” it added.
The ministry said Pakistan’s pre-Hajj flight operations are expected to continue uninterrupted until May 21.
“The Government of Pakistan has reaffirmed its commitment to providing the best possible travel and accommodation facilities to 120,000 pilgrims in Saudi Arabia, ensuring they can perform Hajj rituals with complete peace of mind,” the statement concluded.
