Pakistan set to begin Hajj flight operation from April 18

Pakistan finalised its Hajj 2026 flight schedule and completed visa issuance for pilgrims under the government scheme, with the pre-Hajj flight operation set to begin on April 18, the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony said on Wednesday.

According to the release issued by the ministry, all visas for approximately 120,000 selected pilgrims were issued following the completion of required procedures within the Saudi timeline.

“The Hajj flight operation will continue until May 21, with a total of 468 flights scheduled to transport pilgrims to Saudi Arabia over a 34-day period. The first flights will depart from Karachi, Lahore, Sialkot, and Multan, carrying pilgrims to Madinah,” it added.

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Ministry officials said that during the initial 15 days of the operation, pilgrims would be flown to Madinah, while flights to Jeddah would commence from May 4.

“The first long-haul Hajj flight to Madinah is scheduled for May 7. Out of the total flights, 186 will land in Madinah and 282 in Jeddah. The operation will involve multiple airlines, including Pakistan International Airlines, Airblue, AirSial, and Saudi carriers,” said the ministry in a statement.

It further said that under the government scheme, around 119,000 pilgrims would travel to Saudi Arabia, including 67,230 men and 51,846 women, adding that flights will operate from eight cities across Pakistan.

“Islamabad will have 129 flights, Karachi 124, and Lahore 104. Other cities include Quetta with 18 flights, Multan 34, Sialkot 26, Faisalabad 23, and Sukkur five. On the first day of operations, four flights will transport pilgrims to Madinah,” the statement added.

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The ministry said all logistical arrangements, including accommodation in Makkah and Madinah, allocation of maktabs, and transportation, were finalised after completing the biometric process by February 17.

To facilitate pilgrims, the government enhanced its digital system and advised all travellers to use the “Pak Hajj 2026” mobile application for flight schedules, departure details, and accommodation information. The app would also serve as an official platform for updates and announcements during the Hajj operation.

The ministry urged pilgrims to stay connected with the application and the official website to remain informed about any changes in schedules or training programmes.

The government reaffirmed its commitment to providing quality travel and accommodation facilities to ensure that pilgrims can perform Hajj with ease and focus.