ISLAMABAD: Authorities announced that Pakistan’s first Hajj flight for 2026 will depart on April 19. This year’s Hajj will see more than 180,000 pilgrims traveling to Makkah, including those who missed last year’s pilgrimage.
Under the government scheme, pilgrims will receive immigration facilities at Islamabad Airport through the “Road to Makkah” project. The second phase of Hajj training for pilgrims will begin after Eid, aiming to prepare participants for the pilgrimage rituals.
Reports indicate that private travel agents have demanded additional fees from some pilgrims who had missed Hajj last year. The airlines have announced that Umrah airfares have increased since the beginning of Ramzan.
Pilgrims need to follow government guidelines while officials continue to recommend that they complete their registration process before their journey begins for a successful travel experience.
How to get your Umrah visa this Ramzan
Meanwhile, Muslims throughout the world observe Ramzan as a sacred month which leads millions of people to travel to the holy cities of Makkah and Medina to perform Umrah. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has established new services that make it easier for pilgrims to obtain Umrah visas and travel throughout the kingdom.
The Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs states that pilgrims can obtain Umrah visas through three methods which include electronic visa platforms, licensed external agents and the Nusk platform which offers complete travel solutions through its authorized service providers.
Pilgrims need to get official permits through the Nusk app before they can enter the Grand Mosque. The app also provides prayer times together with crowd monitoring, electronic entry codes and booking for the Riyadh al-Jannah visit and travel guidance in multiple languages which helps to manage visitor flow.
Pilgrims can use a transit visa, which permits them to stay for 96 hours under particular conditions but Umrah visa holders can travel anywhere in Saudi Arabia during their visit.
Travelers can reach Mecca from King Abdulaziz International Airport by using the Haramain Express train service which operates buses, taxis and smart transport applications.
Travelers can use the same transportation options to reach Medina through train, air and bus services.
Masjid al-Haram and Masjid al-Nabawi provide their visitors with manual and electric wheelchairs together with guidance centres, instant translation services and luggage storage facilities and Zamzam water distribution and Riyadh al-Jannah access.
All these services are integrated through the Nusk system to provide pilgrims with a safe, organized, and comfortable experience. Authorities emphasized that pilgrims should maintain decorum, avoid disruptive photography, and refrain from bringing prohibited items. They also stressed following the health and return instructions to ensure a smooth journey.
Saudi Arabia’s modern and integrated system demonstrates the kingdom’s commitment to smart, organized, and secure arrangements for pilgrims during Ramzan.
