Pakistan gears up for the annual pilgrimage season as preparations for Hajj 2024 take flight, with the national flag carrier poised to facilitate thousands of pilgrims embarking on the sacred journey to Saudi Arabia.

Scheduled to commence on May 9th, the flight operations will span across the second week of May, extending into the following month, catering to the influx of devout individuals from the Asian nation.

In a significant development, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has reinstated Pakistan's Hajj quota while lifting the age limit, a decision poised to alleviate barriers and enable a broader spectrum of individuals to partake in the pilgrimage.

The outcomes of the Hajj 2024 draw, unveiled in December 2023, saw over 63,000 fortunate applicants selected for the revered journey under the state-run scheme.

Introducing a technological paradigm shift, the Saudi Hajj and Umrah ministry mandates smartphones for all pilgrims this year, aligning with the contemporary digital landscape.

Pilgrims are required to utilise mobile applications throughout their Hajj journey, offering comprehensive guidance ranging from their Hajj flight to accommodation in Saudi Arabia, supplemented by instructional videos. Notably, each pilgrim will receive a complimentary mobile SIM card courtesy of a Saudi telecommunications company, facilitating 180 minutes of international calls.

As the anticipation mounts and the sacred journey beckons, preparations intensify on the domestic front. Embarking on the holy pilgrimage, pilgrims are poised to undergo the second phase of Hajj training, orchestrated by 40 proficient trainers.

Set to commence on April 15th across 122 locations nationwide, the training endeavors to familiarize pilgrims with new initiatives and pertinent Hajj-related information, ensuring a seamless and spiritually enriching experience.

Ensuring the health and well-being of pilgrims remains paramount, as mandatory vaccination protocols are set to commence ten days prior to the commencement of Hajj flights.

Pilgrims will be equipped with essential amenities including a suitcase, hand carry bag, shoe bag, Ihram belt, and a distinctive green scarf adorned with the Pakistani flag, facilitating a sense of unity and national pride amongst the pilgrim cohort.