Pakistan has completed preparations for the 2025 Hajj operation, with the first flight set to depart for Makkah on April 29. The Ministry of Religious Affairs confirmed that all arrangements are in place to facilitate a smooth experience for pilgrims.
Aftab Gilani, Chief Operating Officer and Airport Manager at Islamabad International Airport, stated that the “Road to Makkah” initiative is fully operational. Seven dedicated immigration counters have been established at the airport to expedite the departure process for pilgrims.
As part of the preparations, a 45-member Saudi immigration delegation has arrived in Islamabad to assist with the Hajj operations, which will begin simultaneously in Islamabad and Karachi on April 29.
This year, a total of 50,500 pilgrims will travel from Pakistan to Saudi Arabia under the “Road to Makkah” program. Of these, 29,000 will depart via Islamabad International Airport.
According to Gilani, 100 flights from Islamabad and 80 from Karachi will operate as part of the initiative. Under the “Road to Makkah” scheme, Pakistani pilgrims will complete immigration procedures in Pakistan prior to departure, allowing them to bypass immigration checks upon arrival in Saudi Arabia—making their journey more seamless and efficient.
