PESHAWAR: Pakistan will begin direct Hajj flights to Jeddah from Monday, the Ministry of Religious Affairs said, as the country’s ongoing pre-Hajj operation continues to transport thousands of pilgrims to Saudi Arabia.
According to the ministry, nearly 37,000 Pakistani pilgrims have already reached the Kingdom since the pre-Hajj flight operation commenced on April 18.
So far, 32,454 pilgrims have travelled under the government scheme through 126 flights, while an additional 4,489 pilgrims have arrived via private tour operators, it added.
“The departure of Hajj flights to Saudi Arabia is ongoing. Direct Hajj flights to Jeddah will begin from May 4,” the ministry said in a statement.
It further noted that a total of 4,377 pilgrims will depart in the coming phase through 17 flights from multiple cities across Pakistan.
The ministry said the Pakistan Hajj Mission’s central control office is actively facilitating pilgrims, including assistance through its Lost and Found department, which has helped six pilgrims recover belongings and returned around 37 wheelchairs and 3,700 bags so far.
Haram guides have also assisted more than 13,000 pilgrims in navigation and location support within Saudi Arabia.
In addition, the Hajj Medical Mission continues to provide healthcare services, including 132 dental procedures, 28 X-rays, 18 laboratory tests, and over 5,000 outpatient consultations.
The Hajj operation involves extensive logistical coordination covering transport, accommodation, and inter-city movement between holy sites. Pakistan is expected to send more than 179,000 pilgrims for this year’s Hajj.
