First batch of Hajj pilgrims returns to Islamabad as flight operations begin

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s post-Hajj return operation started on Saturday night, with the first flight carrying 117 pilgrims landing in Islamabad, according to officials.

Airport Manager Aftab Gilani received the returning pilgrims at Islamabad airport. The return phase began after more than 1.7 million Muslims from 165 countries completed the annual Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia.

Thousands of pilgrims have started departing Makkah after completing the main rites, including the stoning ritual in Mina and the farewell tawaf at the Grand Mosque. This year’s Hajj took place in extremely hot conditions, and Saudi authorities had introduced measures to reduce heat-related risks after more than 1,300 pilgrims died during the 2024 pilgrimage, when temperatures exceeded 50°C.

The Saudi Red Crescent said it had delivered emergency services to more than 83,000 people since the start of the Hajj season. Pakistan’s outbound Hajj flight operation had begun last month, when the first group of 160 pilgrims left Karachi on a private airline. Under the Road to Makkah Project, one-time immigration for pilgrims was completed at Karachi airport before departure. More than 55,000 pilgrims were transported to Saudi Arabia by Pakistan International Airlines through 191 flights, including around 49,000 under the government scheme and about 6,000 through private groups.