Pakistan has completed the visa process for 90 per cent of pilgrims set to perform Hajj in 2026, citing the Ministry of Religious Affairs.
According to ministry officials, the visa issuance process for Hajj 2026 is progressing steadily, with the majority of pilgrim applications already processed.
A ministry spokesperson said the Hajj flight operation from Pakistan is scheduled to begin on 18 April. He assured that despite the ongoing regional tensions, the operation is expected to proceed smoothly without disruptions.
Officials added that authorities are maintaining close coordination with Saudi Arabia to ensure the safety and convenience of all pilgrims.
Sources said the first flight carrying pilgrims will depart on 18 April. In the initial phase, flights will operate from Karachi, Lahore, Sialkot and Multan, while detailed flight schedules will be shared with pilgrims next week.
Under the Hajj 2026 scheme, a total of 468 flights will transport around 119,000 pilgrims from Pakistan.
On the first day, four flights will depart for Medina, while flights to Jeddah will begin from 4 May. The final flight of the operation is scheduled for 21 May.
Hajj flights will operate from eight major cities across the country, including 129 flights from Islamabad, 124 from Karachi, 104 from Lahore, 34 from Multan, 26 from Sialkot, 23 from Faisalabad, 18 from Quetta and five from Sukkur.
Authorities said final arrangements are being completed to ensure a smooth and organised Hajj operation for all pilgrims.
