KARACHI: The annual Hajj operation for 2026 officially commences today, with the first flight scheduled to depart from Jinnah International Airport, Karachi, at 3:00 AM tonight.
Logistics and Departure Details More than 31,000 pilgrims are expected to travel from Karachi this year. Governor Sindh will officially see off the pilgrims at the airport to mark the start of the journey. To ensure timely completion of immigration and security formalities, airport authorities have advised all pilgrims to report at the terminal by 8:00 PM.
The Road to Makkah Initiative Under the Road to Makkah project, Saudi authorities have set up specialized counters at Karachi Airport to complete the immigration process locally. This facility allows pilgrims to bypass long queues upon arrival in Saudi Arabia, enabling them to move directly from the aircraft to their designated transport.
Enhanced Immigration Measures The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has finalized special arrangements to facilitate the pilgrims. Deputy Director of Immigration, Shahzad Akbar, stated that the staff has been issued specific instructions to ensure a seamless and hassle-free immigration process for all Hajj travelers.
Expansion to Other Cities While the first flight leaves Karachi tonight, the operation is also scaling up in other major cities. In Lahore, Saudi immigration teams have arrived at Allama Iqbal International Airport to implement the Road to Makkah project, where a dedicated hall has been established for this purpose. The first flight from Lahore is scheduled to depart at 10:30 AM tomorrow. Similar arrangements are already operational at Islamabad airport to assist pilgrims from the capital. The Ministry of Religious Affairs and airport management have confirmed that all logistical arrangements are in place to ensure a comfortable journey for the pilgrims.
