MAKKAH: The repatriation of Pakistani pilgrims from Hajj 2025 is set to begin on June 10, with the first government-arranged flight scheduled to depart Jeddah at 11:50 PM and arrive in Islamabad at 3:00 AM, carrying 307 pilgrims.
A total of 342 flights will be operated under the government Hajj scheme to bring back 88,390 Pakistani pilgrims by July 10. Pakistan International Airlines and other carriers will operate flights to key cities, including Islamabad, Lahore, Multan, and Karachi.
The first private airline flight is expected to land in Karachi on June 11 at 1:00 PM, bringing 148 pilgrims. Provincial Minister for Religious Affairs Riaz Hussain Shah will welcome the returning pilgrims at Karachi Airport.
This year’s Hajj witnessed the participation of 1,673,230 pilgrims globally, including 1,506,576 international pilgrims from 171 countries and 166,654 domestic pilgrims. Saudi authorities reported a gender distribution of 877,841 men and 795,389 women.
Following last year’s extreme heat-related casualties, Saudi Arabia introduced enhanced safety measures, including expanded shaded areas, cooling stations, and increased medical staffing. Restrictions on unauthorized pilgrims resulted in smaller, more manageable crowds and tighter security.
The conclusion of Hajj coincided with Eid al Adha, marked by traditional animal sacrifices. According to Saudi statistics, 1,435,017 pilgrims arrived by air, 66,465 by land, and 5,094 by sea.
Authorities have assured a smooth and secure repatriation process as Pakistani pilgrims begin their return home.
