Haj journey begins: Thousands of Pakistanis arrive in Makkah and Madina

The Pakistan Haj Mission (PHM) has so far received 38,229 Pakistani pilgrims in Saudi Arabia under the government Haj scheme. The pre-Haj flight operation, which began on April 29, continues to run smoothly, transporting pilgrims to Madina and Makkah via 143 flights.

On May 17 alone, another 3,440 pilgrims are set to land through 13 flights. These include five from Lahore, four from Karachi, three from Islamabad, and one from Multan, according to Ministry of Religious Affairs spokesman Muhammad Umar Butt.

This year, 88,380 pilgrims will perform Haj under the government scheme, while over 23,000 will go through the private scheme. On arrival, pilgrims receive their Nusuk Cards, which are essential for entry into Haram Sharif. These cards are issued by Tawafa Company Al-Rajhi, which oversees pilgrim services for Pakistanis.

To assist pilgrims, the PHM has launched digital and helpline services. These include the Pak Haj App, two toll-free numbers (8002450028 and 8002450029), and WhatsApp support (+923700037425 and +923700037427), helping resolve issues quickly and efficiently.

Healthcare services have also been arranged. Two central hospitals—one each in Makkah and Madina—along with 11 dispensaries are fully operational. A team of 303 medical professionals is providing round-the-clock care. The hospitals are well-equipped with ambulances, laboratories, X-ray and ECG machines, minor operation theatres, and separate wards for men and women.