Hajj Flight Operations to Begin on April 29

ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, Sardar Muhammad Yousaf, announced that Hajj flight operations under the government scheme will commence on April 29. He shared the details during a press conference at the Haji Camp in Lahore.

This year, a total of 90,000 Pakistanis are expected to perform Hajj under the official government scheme. The minister also mentioned that he recently held an important meeting with his Saudi counterpart to ensure proper facilities for Pakistani pilgrims. He confirmed that all preparations, including vaccination and training, are proceeding smoothly.

Hajj training sessions will begin on April 8, and pilgrims will be briefed about all necessary health protocols, including vaccination requirements.

The cost for the Hajj package has been set at Rs1,150,000 for short-term pilgrims and Rs1,050,000 for long-term pilgrims.

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Addressing concerns about misconduct during the pilgrimage, the minister assured that strict action has been taken against individuals previously deported for begging. He also clarified that Umrah visas are usually suspended ahead of the Hajj season to ensure smoother pilgrimage operations.