Route to Makkah facility to debut in Lahore as Pakistan finalises Hajj arrangements for 180,000 pilgrims

A high-level coordination meeting at Allama Iqbal International Airport reviewed final operational arrangements for the launch of Route to Makkah services from Lahore for the first time, the Pakistan Airports Authority said on Thursday.

The session brought together Saudi and Pakistani officials, including Saudi Director Operations Hajj Fuwaz Saud Al Shafiri, along with representatives from key departments such as the Airport Security Force, Customs, Federal Investigation Agency, Anti-Narcotics Force, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, to assess readiness and ensure coordinated handling of pilgrims.

Participants underscored the importance of close inter-agency collaboration to facilitate smooth processing of pilgrims at all stages and reiterated their commitment to delivering efficient services under the Route to Makkah initiative.

Detailed deliberations focused on logistical and infrastructure preparedness at the airport, including the establishment of dedicated counters and holding areas for Route to Makkah passengers, sufficient seating arrangements, improved queue management systems, and enhanced signage across the terminal. Officials said these measures are intended to streamline passenger movement, reduce congestion, and strengthen operational efficiency during peak travel periods.

Separately, Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousuf stated on April 5 that overall Hajj arrangements were being completed efficiently without imposing additional financial burden on pilgrims. He confirmed that a total of 180,000 Pakistanis will perform Hajj this year, including 120,000 under the government scheme and 60,000 through private operators.

The minister added that flight operations for the pilgrimage are scheduled to begin on April 18, with the inclusion of the new Lahore route alongside existing services, as authorities aim to ensure safe, organised, and comfortable travel for pilgrims.