Pakistan has successfully completed the visa processing for approximately 90 percent of its pilgrims registered for Hajj 2026, marking a significant milestone in the preparations for this year’s sacred pilgrimage. The Ministry of Religious Affairs confirmed that the majority of applications have been processed, reflecting the government’s commitment to facilitating a smooth and efficient Hajj operation for thousands of Pakistani worshippers.
The ministry revealed that the Hajj flights are scheduled to commence on April 18, with the first batch of pilgrims departing for Saudi Arabia on the very same day. This announcement comes amid ongoing regional tensions, yet officials remain confident that the pilgrimage will proceed without any interruptions or delays. Close coordination with Saudi authorities is being maintained to ensure the safety, comfort, and convenience of all pilgrims throughout the journey.
In the initial phase of the operation, flights will take off from major cities including Karachi, Lahore, Sialkot, and Multan. Detailed schedules and flight information will be shared with the pilgrims in the coming week, allowing them to prepare adequately for their departure. The comprehensive Hajj plan for 2026 involves a total of 468 flights, which will collectively transport around 119,000 Pakistani pilgrims to the holy sites.
On the first day alone, four flights are set to fly directly to Medina, one of the two primary destinations for Hajj pilgrims. Flights to Jeddah, the gateway to Mecca, will begin operations from May 4 onwards. The entire Hajj operation is expected to conclude with the final flight scheduled for May 21, ensuring a well-organized and timely return for all participants.
The flights will operate from eight key cities across Pakistan, with Islamabad handling 129 flights, Karachi 124, and Lahore 104. Other cities involved include Multan with 34 flights, Sialkot 26, Faisalabad 23, Quetta 18, and Sukkur 5. Authorities are working diligently to finalize all logistical arrangements, aiming to provide pilgrims with a seamless travel experience from their home cities to the holy sites.
It is worth noting that the Ministry of Religious Affairs has been actively engaging with various stakeholders to ensure that all aspects of the Hajj operation, from visa issuance to transportation and accommodation, meet the highest standards. This proactive approach is intended to minimize any potential challenges and uphold the spiritual significance of the pilgrimage for Pakistani Muslims.
