In a significant development for Pakistan’s Hajj operations, the first flight under the Road to Makkah Project departed from Lahore on Saturday, marking the city’s formal inclusion in the initiative after Islamabad and Karachi.
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A total of 345 pilgrims left for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on Saudia flight SV5735, which took off at 10:30 AM. Under the expanded program, approximately 29,929 pilgrims will travel from Lahore through 104 scheduled flights.
The Road to Makkah Project, a flagship initiative by the Government of Saudi Arabia, aims to streamline travel procedures for Hajj pilgrims by completing immigration and customs formalities in their home country. Under this system, pilgrims undergo both Pakistani and Saudi immigration and customs clearance at the departure airport. This means that upon arrival in Saudi Arabia, pilgrims will not have to go through lengthy immigration processes or stand in extended queues. Additionally, their checked baggage will be transported directly from the airport to their accommodations, ensuring a smoother and more comfortable journey.
Officials stated that around 80 percent of pilgrims traveling under the government Hajj scheme from Lahore will benefit from this facility.
The inaugural flight was seen off by Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousaf and Saudi Ambassador to Pakistan Nawaf bin Saeed Al-Malki. They were joined by Federal Secretary for Religious Affairs Abrar Ahmad Mirza and Project Head Major General Dr. Saleh bin Saad Al-Miraba.
Among other dignitaries present were Provincial Health Minister Khawaja Salman Rafique, Finance Minister Mian Mujtaba Shuja-ur-Rehman, Senator Hafiz Abdul Karim, religious scholar Hafiz Tahir Ashrafi, and Shabbir Ahmed Usmani, all of whom extended their best wishes to the departing pilgrims.
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The inclusion of Lahore in the Road to Makkah Project is expected to significantly enhance convenience and efficiency for thousands of pilgrims traveling from the region.