Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has reduced ticket prices by up to Rs6,000 for Umrah pilgrims traveling from major Pakistani cities like Lahore, Islamabad, Sialkot, Peshawar, Multan, and Faisalabad to Jeddah.
Passengers from Karachi and Quetta will now pay Rs79,000, while those from other cities will be charged Rs87,000, excluding taxes.
This move aims to help Pakistani pilgrims facing financial challenges, and PIA expects more passengers and revenue as a result.
The announcement of the Hajj Policy for 2024 has been delayed, as efforts are underway to lower the Hajj package costs. The government is also offering a more flexible 20 to 25-day Hajj package this year to accommodate a wider range of pilgrims.
While there were unofficial reports that this year’s Hajj pilgrimage cost would be slightly above Rs. 1 million, the government plans to retain the Sponsorship scheme, eliminating the need for balloting.
Saudi Arabia is committed to enhancing facilities and services for Pakistani pilgrims during Hajj 2024.
There have been discussions about reducing the number of Pakistani Hajj Group Organizers (HGOs) from 905 to only 46. Negotiations are ongoing, but it’s uncertain if Saudi authorities will change their decision.
Saudi Arabia’s ‘Road to Makkah’ project, part of the Guests of God Service Program, is in place at Lahore and Karachi airports and may extend to Peshawar and Quetta. This initiative provides services to Hajj pilgrims in their home countries, making their journey to Makkah and Madina smoother.
