Islamabad, Pakistan – A 45-member Saudi delegation arrived in Pakistan on Sunday to review the arrangements for the Road to Makkah project, which aims to streamline and simplify the Hajj pilgrimage process for Pakistani pilgrims. The delegation was warmly welcomed by officials from Pakistan’s Ministry of Religious Affairs at Islamabad International Airport.

Under the Road to Makkah initiative, which was first launched in 2019, immigration procedures for Pakistani pilgrims will now be completed in Pakistan before departure, eliminating the need for these procedures to be carried out upon arrival in Saudi Arabia. This significant step will not only save time but also enhance the overall travel experience for the pilgrims.

This year, around 50,500 Pakistani pilgrims are set to embark on their sacred journey to Saudi Arabia. Of these, approximately 28,000 pilgrims will depart from Islamabad International Airport, while 21,000 pilgrims will depart from Karachi International Airport.

To ensure a smooth process, 100 Hajj flights will operate from Islamabad, and 80 flights will depart from Karachi under this initiative. Dedicated immigration counters are being set up at both airports, ensuring efficient processing for the pilgrims.

The Road to Makkah project is part of Saudi Arabia’s broader efforts to enhance the Hajj experience and provide greater ease for pilgrims from selected countries. The initiative aims to reduce waiting times, prevent any delays, and ensure that pilgrims can focus on their spiritual journey.

The project is being hailed as a major step towards strengthening Pakistan-Saudi Arabia ties while making the Hajj process more seamless and convenient for Pakistani Muslims.