As the annual Hajj pilgrimage draws near, Pakistani Muslims are filled with anticipation, not only for the spiritual journey but also for the newfound convenience promised by the Makkah Route Initiative. This year, approximately 65,000 Pakistani pilgrims are expected to benefit from this initiative.
The Makkah Route Initiative, aimed at streamlining the immigration process, has gradually expanded its reach, offering hope to thousands embarking on this sacred journey. Unlike previous years, where lengthy immigration queues and bureaucratic hurdles awaited them upon arrival in Saudi Arabia, this innovative program allows pilgrims to complete their immigration procedures from their home country.
Initially available only at Islamabad’s airport since 2019, the initiative has now been extended to Karachi, Pakistan’s most populous city. This expansion enables pilgrims to complete immigration procedures at their departure country, making entry into Saudi Arabia smoother and reducing wait times. This year, the initiative will cater to 65,000 pilgrims, with 41,000 under the government’s Hajj scheme and 24,000 through private tour operators.
Of these, 29,500 pilgrims will utilize the facility from Islamabad, while 35,500 will do so from Karachi. Saudi Arabia has also reinstated Pakistan’s pre-pandemic Hajj quota and removed the age limit of 65.
Hajj operations for 2024 in Pakistan will run from May 9 to June 9 across eight airports, with the pilgrimage expected to take place from June 14-19. This year, 69,000 pilgrims will perform Hajj under the government scheme, including 5,000 through the sponsorship scheme for overseas Pakistanis.
Preparations have commenced early to secure favorable accommodations in Makkah, Madinah, and Mina. Despite global inflation, the Pakistani government has managed to reduce Hajj expenses by Rs100,000 compared to last year, along with decreased costs for plane tickets.
Additionally, pilgrims have the option to choose a shorter Hajj duration for an extra fee, with exclusive accommodation options available for those willing to pay more.
