Hajj 2026 flights to begin on April 18, says minister

Islamabad: Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousuf has said arrangements for Hajj 2026 have been completed and that no additional cost will be imposed on 180,000 pilgrims, including 120,000 under the government scheme and 60,000 through private operators.

The minister said Hajj flight operations will start on April 18. He also announced the addition of a new Lahore route to Saudi Arabia, while services from other cities will continue according to schedule.

According to the minister, a total of 180,000 Pakistani pilgrims will perform Hajj this year. He said the new Lahore-to-Saudi Arabia route has been introduced to make travel easier for intending pilgrims. In response to a query, he said the route had previously run from Karachi to Islamabad, and that the Lahore route has now been added while flights from other cities will continue as planned.

Sardar Muhammad Yousuf said the government intends to ensure that all operational matters, including flights, accommodation and transport, are managed in an organised and efficient manner so that pilgrims can travel in comfort and safety.

He said the Ministry of Religious Affairs will remain in close coordination with private companies for the regulation of Umrah services, accommodation, food arrangements and transport. He added that efforts are under way to provide pilgrims with quality facilities and to make this year’s Hajj notable in terms of management and services.

The minister also spoke about Pakistan’s ties with Saudi Arabia, describing the relationship between the two countries as strong and appreciating the arrangements and support extended by the host country for Pakistani pilgrims.

He said Pakistan will fully utilise its Hajj quota this year while maintaining high standards, adding that this reflects the commitment of both governments to facilitating a safe and memorable pilgrimage experience.

Quota and operational arrangements

The minister said the total number of pilgrims for Hajj 2026 will be 180,000, with 120,000 travelling under the government scheme and 60,000 through private arrangements. He maintained that there would be no extra cost for pilgrims under the announced arrangements.

He further said the ministry is focused on ensuring smooth execution of all aspects of the pilgrimage operation, from air travel to on-ground logistics in Saudi Arabia.

Every effort is being made to provide pilgrims with high-quality arrangements, and the ministry aims to make this year’s Hajj an exemplary experience in terms of management and facilities.