ISLAMABAD: The return of Pakistani pilgrims from Saudi Arabia has officially begun, with the first post-Hajj flight PK-732 arriving in Islamabad from Jeddah on Wednesday morning.
Federal Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Dr. Tariq Fazal Chaudhry welcomed the pilgrims at Islamabad International Airport, marking the start of the return phase of Hajj 2025 operations. Speaking on the occasion, the minister praised the arrangements made during the pilgrimage, stating that the Government of Pakistan had provided exemplary facilities to the pilgrims throughout their spiritual journey.
“There is no doubt that the pilgrims were provided with the best possible services during Hajj,” Dr. Chaudhry said in a statement issued by the Ministry of Religious Affairs. He also lauded the cooperation and support extended by the Saudi government, describing their joint efforts with Pakistan as commendable.
Dr. Chaudhry assured that the government is committed to improving services further, saying, “Next year, we aim to make even better arrangements. It is our responsibility to ensure that every pilgrim receives complete support in fulfilling this sacred obligation.”
The Hajj 2025 operation began on April 29, when Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) operated its first outbound flight carrying 393 pilgrims from Islamabad to Madinah.
In the coming days, the return of pilgrims will continue through other major cities including Lahore, Karachi, Peshawar, Quetta, and more. The Ministry of Religious Affairs and PIA are coordinating closely to ensure the smooth and safe return of all pilgrims.
Meanwhile, thousands of pilgrims are still arriving in Madinah following the completion of Hajj rituals, while others are visiting historical Islamic sites in Makkah and Madinah as part of their spiritual journey.
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