In a swift response to the needs of Umrah pilgrims, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has reduced fares by up to Rs6,000. Effective immediately, these reduced rates will be applicable for journeys from major Pakistani cities such as Lahore, Islamabad, Sialkot, Peshawar, Multan, and Faisalabad to Jeddah.
According to reports, passengers traveling from Karachi and Quetta will now pay Rs79,000, while those from other cities will be charged Rs87,000, excluding taxes. This fare reduction initiative comes as a relief for Pakistani pilgrims facing economic challenges, and PIA expects an increase in passenger volume and revenue as a result.
Caretaker Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, Aneeq Ahmed, has affirmed the Saudi Arabian government’s commitment to enhancing facilities and services for Pakistani pilgrims during Hajj 2024. Meanwhile, the much-anticipated announcement of the Hajj Policy for 2024 has experienced an unexpected delay, attributed to ongoing efforts to reduce Hajj package costs.
The federal government is now offering a more flexible 20 to 25-day Hajj package this year to accommodate a wider range of pilgrims. While it was unofficially reported earlier that the cost of this year’s Hajj pilgrimage would be slightly above Rs. 1 million, the government is retaining the Sponsorship scheme with no balloting.
In recent discussions, lawmakers addressed the reduction of Pakistani Hajj Group Organizers (HGOs) from 905 to only 46. A letter was forwarded to the Saudi Hajj and Umrah Ministry, requesting a delay in the reduction for the current year and suggesting a gradual decrease in the upcoming years. Despite negotiations, Saudi authorities may not change their decision, advising the religious affairs ministry to prepare for the upcoming Hajj accordingly.
It’s worth noting that Saudi authorities have approved the ‘Road to Makkah’ project from Lahore and Karachi airports, with plans to extend it to airports in Peshawar and Quetta. The ‘Road to Makkah’ initiative is part of Saudi Arabia’s Guests of God Service Program, aimed at providing convenience to Hajj pilgrims by issuing visas and offering various services at their respective countries’ airports. This program streamlines the process for pilgrims, reducing hassles upon arrival in Saudi Arabia.
