Post-Hajj Repatriation Operation for Pakistani Pilgrims Begins June 11

The post-Hajj repatriation operation to bring back over 88,000 Pakistani pilgrims will officially begin on Wednesday, June 11. The first flight, carrying 307 pilgrims under the government’s short-term Hajj scheme, will depart from Jeddah at 11:50 PM on Tuesday and land in Islamabad at 3:00 AM.

Chief Executive Officer of Islamabad International Airport, Aftab Gilani, confirmed that all necessary arrangements are in place to ensure a smooth and dignified return for the pilgrims. In the first phase, eight flights are expected to arrive on June 11 at major airports, including Islamabad, Lahore, Multan, and Karachi.

The Ministry of Religious Affairs stated that a total of 342 flights will operate until July 10, managed by PIA, local private airlines, and Saudi carriers. Pilgrims are currently transitioning from Mecca to Medina, and flights from Medina will commence next week.

Mr. Gilani reassured the media that returning pilgrims will be provided full facilities upon arrival, with Hajj mission staff, airport teams, and security personnel fully mobilized.

The Pakistani Hajj Mission was also recently honored with an Excellence Award for its outstanding coordination and services during Hajj 2024. Meanwhile, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman praised the overall successful management of the global pilgrimage this year.