Islamabad: The first Hajj flight of the year departed from Islamabad International Airport today, carrying 270 intending pilgrims as part of the Road to Makkah project. The initiative, which aims to streamline the pilgrimage process, was inaugurated with a ceremonial send-off by Federal Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, Sardar Muhammad Yousuf, alongside senior officials.

According to Radio Pakistan, Sardar Muhammad Yousuf emphasized the timely completion of Hajj preparations with the cooperation of the Saudi government, ensuring that pilgrims receive optimal facilities. The Road to Makkah project enables pilgrims to complete Saudi immigration and other necessary formalities at their departure airport, facilitating a smoother arrival in Saudi Arabia.

This year, the initiative’s reach has been extended to Lahore, alongside Karachi and Islamabad, and is poised to benefit over 95,000 pilgrims. In addition to streamlined immigration processes, pilgrims will receive e-SIM cards for seamless communication with their families in Pakistan. Other provisions include modern, comfortable tents and access to high-speed trains connecting Makkah and Madinah to ease travel logistics.

Minister Yousuf expressed gratitude to Saudi King Salman Bin Abdul Aziz, Crown Prince Muhammad Bin Salman, and Hajj Minister Tawfiq Bin Fawzan al-Rabiah for their pivotal support in the Hajj preparations. He congratulated the departing pilgrims on their spiritual journey and encouraged them to uphold Pakistan’s honor and dignity during their pilgrimage.