ISLAMABAD: The Hajj flight operation for Pakistani pilgrims has been running smoothly, and the first Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flight under the Road to Makkah project arrived in Al Madinah on Monday.
The inaugural Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flight under the Road to Makkah initiative arrived in Madinah on Monday. According to the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony spokesperson, 1,200 pilgrims were safely transported to Madinah through five flights on Sunday.
Pakistani pilgrims greeted warmly
The 386 Islamabad pilgrims were warmly greeted by Saudi authorities upon their arrival in Madinah. As a gesture of hospitality, they were met with open arms and given generous presents such as Zamzam water and dates.
The Road to Makkah program has streamlined immigration procedures, ensuring that all legal Hajj requirements are met effectively at the airport, avoiding the need for additional steps upon arrival in Saudi Arabia.
Pilgrims expressed their satisfaction with the Road to Makkah project arrangements during an interview at Madinah airport. They praised the benefits of saving time not only at Islamabad Airport but also at Madinah Airport. Officials from Pakistani Airlines reaffirmed their commitment to providing complete support to Pakistani pilgrims.
A main control room has been set up in the new Madinah Hajj mission building, according to a spokesman for the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony. The four planes carrying 1,390 pilgrims are expected to arrive in Madinah on Monday. Similarly, around 3,000 intended pilgrims will arrive by nine planes on Tuesday. Furthermore, the spokesperson recommended pilgrims collect their passports, visas, and flight tickets from the separate Hajj camps at least 24 hours before their scheduled flight.
Hajj Moavineen at Madinah Munawwarah Hotels is available 24 hours a week to cater to pilgrims’ requirements. During the guests’ stay, these dedicated staff members are on standby to provide continuous help and guidance. According to a representative for the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, the immunization procedure is ongoing at various Hajj camps in Pakistan, even during weekly vacations. The spokeswoman invited pilgrims to seek assistance from the Ministry’s Hajj Immunization helplines and website.
The Qurbani sum of Rs. 55,000 has been directly transferred into the pilgrims’ bank accounts under the supervision of the Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, Talha Mehmood. The spokesman further said pilgrims who participate in the sponsoring scheme will be able to collect cash from approved banks. It was also recommended that pilgrims receive their passports, visas, and air tickets at least 24 hours before their scheduled flight from the respective Hajj camps.
