PESHAWAR: The deadline for Umrah pilgrims travelling from Karachi without vaccination has been extended by another 15 days, while vaccination has been made mandatory for Umrah pilgrims and Saudi visit visa holders travelling from Peshawar.
According to Dr Syed Murtaza Shah Bukhari, focal person for the Federal Airport Health Department and Border Health Services, pilgrims travelling from Karachi will now be allowed to travel without vaccination until October 10.
He said the extension had been granted to facilitate Umrah pilgrims and provide them additional time to meet the vaccination requirement.
Five NADRA facilitation centres have also been established at the Karachi Airport dispensary, while vaccination services at the Jacob Lines dispensary are scheduled to begin next week.
In Peshawar, however, vaccination requirements have been tightened for Umrah pilgrims and passengers holding Saudi visit visas. Officials said travellers would be allowed to depart without vaccination until October 14, after which vaccination will become mandatory from October 15.
A vaccination centre has been established at the Civil Surgeon’s Office in Peshawar for Umrah pilgrims. The facility has 20 counters for men and women, while two NADRA facilitation centres are also being set up there.
Dr Bukhari advised travellers to complete their vaccination at least 10 days before departure to avoid difficulties during their journey.
Read also: New Vaccination Card Rule: Airlines Seek Relief for Hajj, Umrah Pilgrims
