ISLAMABAD: Pakistan will establish a “digital corridor” with Saudi Arabia aimed at streamlining Hajj operations, state-run Associated Press of Pakistan (APP) reported on Sunday, saying the collaboration will improve services for pilgrims and share their real time data with Saudi Hajj systems and platforms.
The initiative is being launched under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s directives to modernize Hajj management through advanced technology and integrated digital systems, APP reported. The National Information Technology Board (NITB) is spearheading the initiative, it added.
“Confirming the development from Makkah, NITB Program Manager Muhammad Awais said the landmark digital corridor would enable real-time sharing of pilgrims’ data with Saudi Arabia’s central Hajj systems, including the Nusuk and Masar platforms,” APP said.
Nusuk is Saudi Arabia’s official digital platform for Hajj and Umrah services, while the Masar platform connects pilgrims worldwide with authorized service providers and streamlines the booking of hotels, flights, and transportation.
Awais described the initiative as a “major breakthrough” to help improve coordination, efficiency and pilgrim services between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.
“The corridor will also create an integrated domestic network linking key Pakistani institutions, including the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA), the Directorate General of Passports and Immigration, designated banks, and airlines,” APP said.
The pinnacle of the pilgrimage, the day of Arafat, will take place on the 10th of Dhul Hijjah, corresponding to May 26.
Most Pakistani pilgrims this year traveled to Saudi Arabia under the Kingdom’s Route to Makkah Initiative, which allows travelers to complete immigration and customs procedures before departure from Pakistan.
