ISLAMABAD: The Ministry of Religious Affairs announced that a 45-member Saudi delegation arrived in Pakistan to review preparations for the ‘Road to Makkah’ project, aiming to ease the Hajj process for Pakistani pilgrims.
Ministry officials received the delegation at Islamabad International Airport, according to spokesperson Muhammad Umar Butt.
Under the initiative, 50,500 pilgrims will travel to Saudi Arabia — 28,000 from Islamabad and 22,500 from Karachi — with 100 flights operating from Islamabad and 80 from Karachi. Dedicated immigration counters will be set up at both airports, allowing pilgrims to complete immigration formalities in Pakistan.
The ministry issued guidelines, making essential vaccinations mandatory. Pilgrims must visit Haji Camps for free vaccinations against meningitis, influenza, and polio and obtain a yellow vaccination card. Seniors over 65 must carry original COVID-19 vaccination certificates or get re-vaccinated if needed.
The ministry also warned pilgrims against fraudulent Hajj permits, stressing that violations could lead to arrest, fines, deportation, and denial of access to holy sites. Respect for Saudi laws was emphasized as crucial for a blessed Hajj.
