Route to Makkah operations to commence from Lahore airport for first time

A high-level coordination meeting was held at the Allama Iqbal International Airport, Lahore, to review preparations for the commencement of Route to Makkah operations from Lahore for the first time, the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) stated on Thursday.

The meeting was attended by Saudi Director Operations Hajj Fuwaz Saud Al Shafiri along with the secretary of the Saudi Embassy, who met with Airport Manager Erfan Khan and senior representatives of the PAA, ASF, Customs, FIA, ANF, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and other stakeholders.

Participants emphasised enhanced inter-agency coordination to ensure seamless processing of Hajj pilgrims at all stages. The meeting reaffirmed the commitment to provide maximum facilitation under the Route to Makkah initiative.

Detailed discussions were held on infrastructure arrangements, including dedicated counters and holding areas for Route to Makkah passengers, adequate seating capacity, improved queue management systems, and clear signage across the terminal. Special focus was placed on ensuring smooth passenger flow, minimising congestion, and enhancing operational efficiency.

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The meeting concluded with a shared resolve to ensure a smooth, organised, and passenger-friendly launch of the Route to Makkah operations from the Lahore airport.

Speaking with PTV News in Riyadh, Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousuf on April 5 said all arrangements for Hajj were being completed efficiently with no extra cost.

The minister had said a total of 180,000 pilgrims will perform Hajj this year, including 120,000 governments and 60,000 private, with flights starting April 18 with exemplary arrangements and a new Lahore route added to existing services.

He had emphasised that all operations, including flights, accommodations and transport, will be organised in a smooth and exemplary manner to ensure the comfort and safety of all pilgrims.

“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,” the minister had said.

He had also reaffirmed the strong relationship between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, appreciating the host country’s arrangements and support for Pakistani pilgrims.