LAHORE: The landmark Route to Makkah Project marked a major milestone on Saturday as the first Hajj flight under the initiative departed from Lahore, offering streamlined immigration and travel facilities to Pakistani pilgrims.
Head of the project, Major General Dr. Saleh bin Saad Al-Murabba, arrived in Lahore along with a high-level Saudi delegation comprising officials from the ministries of foreign affairs, interior, civil aviation, information and media, and the Route to Makkah programme.
The delegation was received at the airport by Additional Secretary Religious Affairs Dr. Sajid Mahmood Chauhan and Saudi Ambassador to Pakistan Nawaf bin Said Al-Malki.
The inaugural flight, Saudi Airlines SV5735, departed at 10:30am carrying 345 pilgrims to Medina. Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousaf, along with provincial ministers and senior officials, saw off the pilgrims.
Under the Route to Makkah Project, pilgrims complete immigration and customs formalities in Pakistan before departure, significantly reducing waiting time upon arrival in Saudi Arabia.
The initiative also ensures dedicated facilitation, efficient baggage handling, and improved coordination between authorities of both countries.
Officials said the project greatly enhances the overall Hajj experience by minimizing travel-related stress, ensuring smooth transit, and allowing pilgrims to focus on their religious obligations upon arrival. Continuous assistance is also being provided at the airport, with Ministry of Religious Affairs staff deployed round the clock to guide pilgrims.
Speakers at the ceremony paid tribute to the leadership of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, as well as Saudi Minister for Hajj and Umrah Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah, for their efforts in facilitating pilgrims.
Pilgrims departing from Lahore expressed appreciation for the improved arrangements and extended their gratitude to the governments of Pakistan and Saudi Arabia for introducing the initiative, which they said made their journey more comfortable and efficient.
