KARACHI: Pakistan’s Ministry of Religious Affairs has announced that the return operation for Pakistani Hajj pilgrims will begin on May 31, marking the start of a large-scale effort to bring thousands of worshippers back home after the completion of the annual pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia.
According to the ministry, the first Hajj return flight will depart from Jeddah on the night of May 31 and land in Sialkot, carrying 391 pilgrims. The launch of the post-Hajj air operation signals the beginning of one of the largest annual transportation exercises coordinated between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.
Officials said that although the first flight will leave on May 31, the majority of return flights under the operation will arrive in Pakistan on June 1, according to Pakistan Standard Time. The ministry has finalized comprehensive arrangements to ensure the smooth return of pilgrims to various cities across the country.
More Than 5,000 Pilgrims to Return on First Full Day
The Ministry of Religious Affairs stated that on June 1, a total of 22 flights will bring 5,237 Pakistani pilgrims back from Saudi Arabia.
Under the schedule released by the ministry:
- Five flights will arrive in Islamabad
- Four flights each will land in Karachi and Lahore
- Three flights each will arrive in Multan and Sialkot
- Two flights will land in Faisalabad
- One flight will arrive in Quetta
Authorities have coordinated with airports, immigration departments, airlines, and provincial administrations to facilitate the arrival process and ensure that returning pilgrims receive the necessary assistance.
Final Flight Scheduled for June 30
The ministry further revealed that the last flight of the Hajj operation is scheduled to arrive in Lahore on June 30, concluding the month-long repatriation exercise.
Meanwhile, return flights departing from Madinah will commence on June 3, allowing pilgrims who spend additional days in the holy city to return to Pakistan according to their travel schedules.
The ministry noted that the return operation has been carefully planned to accommodate all pilgrims who traveled under the government-sponsored Hajj scheme. Special arrangements have also been made to assist elderly pilgrims and those requiring medical support during their journey.
119,000 Pilgrims to Return Under Government Scheme
According to official figures, approximately 119,000 Pakistani pilgrims who performed Hajj under the government scheme will be transported back to the country through 471 flights.
The large-scale operation involves coordination among multiple airlines and aviation authorities to ensure timely and safe transportation. Officials said flight schedules have been distributed to pilgrims, and information desks have been established to address any travel-related concerns.
The Ministry of Religious Affairs has urged pilgrims to follow airline instructions, arrive at airports on time, and keep travel documents readily available to avoid delays during departure from Saudi Arabia.
Successful Completion of Hajj
The announcement comes after the successful completion of this year’s Hajj pilgrimage, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world. Millions of Muslims from across the globe traveled to the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah to perform the sacred rituals of Hajj.
Saudi authorities recently reported that more than 1.7 million pilgrims participated in this year’s pilgrimage. Extensive arrangements were made by the Kingdom to manage crowd movement, transportation, healthcare services, and security during the event.
Pilgrims from Pakistan joined worshippers from dozens of countries in performing the key rites of Hajj, including standing at Arafat, spending time in Muzdalifah, and participating in rituals in Mina before completing the pilgrimage.
Government Monitoring Return Arrangements
Pakistani authorities have emphasized that monitoring teams will remain active throughout the return operation to ensure a smooth experience for pilgrims. Airport officials, Hajj mission staff, and airline representatives will continue to provide support both in Saudi Arabia and Pakistan.
The ministry expressed satisfaction with the overall conduct of this year’s Hajj arrangements and reaffirmed its commitment to facilitating the safe return of all pilgrims. It also thanked Saudi authorities for their cooperation and hospitality during the pilgrimage season.
With the first return flight set to arrive in Sialkot, thousands of families across Pakistan are preparing to welcome home their loved ones after the spiritual journey of a lifetime. The month-long operation will continue through June, eventually bringing all government-scheme pilgrims back to their respective cities across the country.
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