Pakistan initiated its Hajj 2025 flight operations today, as PIA’s inaugural flight, PK 713, departed from Islamabad for Madinah. Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousaf spoke at the ceremony, emphasising steps to ensure pilgrim’s comfort.
The steps included a dedicated mobile app enabled SIM card for navigation in Mina and expanded “Road to Makkah” immigration facilities which will benefit around 50,000 travellers from Islamabad/Karachi.
The minister announced that he would personally take care of the arrangements in Saudi Arabia, urging pilgrims to uphold Saudi laws while serving as Pakistan’s ambassadors. He acknowledged Saudi leadership’s support for Hajj logistics as well.
Muhammad Yousaf plans to extend the streamline immigration project to more Pakistani cities next year. Pilgrims praised the initiative, particularly the pre departure immigration processing that reduces arrival formalities in Saudi Arabia causing ease for the travellers.
This year’s operations reflect Pakistan’s commitment to addressing historical challenges, combining technology with diplomatic coordination to enhance the spiritual journey. Minister Yousaf called upon pilgrims to pray for Pakistan’s prosperity and Muslim unity, as the nation begins its phased airlift of thousands fulfilling the Islamic pilgrimage obligation.