Pakistan’s first Hajj flight for 2026 will depart on April 18, marking the start of the annual pilgrimage operation, according to the Ministry of Religious Affairs. Under the government Hajj scheme, a total of 468 flights will transport pilgrims from Pakistan to the holy sites in Saudi Arabia over a 34-day period.
On the first day, flights will depart from Karachi, Lahore, Sialkot, and Multan, carrying pilgrims to Medina. Pilgrims will be informed of their specific flight schedules next week. The first flights to Jeddah will commence on May 4, and the last Hajj flight from Pakistan is scheduled for May 21.
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A total of 119,000 pilgrims will participate under the official scheme. During the first 15 days, the operation will focus on transporting pilgrims to Medina, with 186 flights to Medina and 282 flights to Jeddah planned over the entire period.
Hajj flights will operate from eight Pakistani cities, with Islamabad sending 129 flights, Karachi 124, Lahore 104, Multan 34, Sialkot 26, Quetta 18, Faisalabad 23, and Sukkur 5 flights. Authorities said the operation will ensure smooth and safe transport of pilgrims to the holy sites.
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The Ministry of Religious Affairs emphasized that the Hajj 2026 operation has been meticulously planned to facilitate pilgrims efficiently, ensuring adherence to safety protocols and comfort during the journey.