ISLAMABAD: A Saudi 45-member delegation is starting discussions with the government of Pakistan officials on its request to review the issues of private Hajj operators.
Pakistan private Hajj operators are in fear to lose 67000 Hajj quota due to their own mistakes.
The Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony announced on Sunday that a 45-member Saudi delegation has arrived in Pakistan to assess the arrangements for the ‘Road to Makkah’ initiative.
This aims to streamline the process for Pakistani pilgrims traveling to Saudi Arabia for the upcoming Hajj season.
Spokesperson for the ministry, Muhammad Umar Butt, stated that the delegation was warmly welcomed upon their arrival at Islamabad International Airport (IIA).
He explained that under the ‘Road to Makkah’ initiative, a total of 50,500 Pakistani pilgrims will be facilitated through designated flights to Saudi Arabia.
Of these, approximately 28,000 pilgrims will depart from IIA, and 22,500 will fly from Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport.
A total of 100 flights will operate from Islamabad, while 80 will depart from Karachi under the project.
One of the key features of the ‘Road to Makkah’ initiative is the establishment of dedicated immigration counters for pilgrims at both Islamabad and Karachi airports.
This will ensure that the pilgrims’ immigration procedures are completed in Pakistan, eliminating the need for clearance upon arrival in Saudi Arabia, which will further ease the travel process.
Umar Butt emphasized the importance of vaccinations for all pilgrims. He stated that it is mandatory for pilgrims to receive essential vaccinations before their departure, including meningitis, influenza, and polio vaccines.
Pilgrims are advised to visit the nearest Haji Camp to receive these vaccinations free of charge.
Once vaccinated, pilgrims must obtain the yellow vaccination card, as entry into Saudi Arabia without this valid certificate will not be permitted.
Additionally, the ministry has made it clear that pilgrims aged 65 or above must carry their original COVID-19 vaccination card.
If senior pilgrims do not have the card, they are instructed to get vaccinated at the nearest Haji Camp and obtain a new certificate.
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Umar Butt also issued a stern warning regarding fraudulent Hajj permits.
He emphasized that pilgrims should only travel with valid and approved Hajj permits, cautioning against fraudulent companies and unauthorized advertisements that could mislead potential pilgrims into purchasing fake permits.
Such actions could have serious consequences for the travelers.
The Saudi delegation’s visit to review the arrangements for the ‘Road to Makkah’ initiative highlights the importance of ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience for Pakistani pilgrims.
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As they prepare for one of the most significant journeys of their lives.
