First flight from Islamabad departs with 270 pilgrims to Madinah

The first Hajj flight under the Road to Makkah project departed from Islamabad carrying 270 pilgrims for Madinah Munawwarah.

Flights under the Hajj 2026 Road to Makkah initiative have commenced from Islamabad International Airport. A Saudi Arabian Airlines flight departed with 270 intending pilgrims on board.

Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousuf, Saudi Deputy Head of Mission Mohammad Al Ali, and other officials saw off the pilgrims at the airport.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, the minister stated that providing a dignified and smooth journey for pilgrims remains the government’s foremost priority.

Pilgrims departing on the Saudi flight described arrangements at training centres, immigration counters, and vaccination facilities at Hajj camps as satisfactory.

The federal minister informed that pilgrims will be provided with free SIM cards upon arrival in Saudi Arabia.

He urged the pilgrims to represent Pakistan in the best possible manner as ambassadors of the country.

He advised full compliance with Saudi laws, along with patience and discipline, and to offer special prayers for Pakistan and the Muslim Ummah at the Haramain Sharifain.