ISLAMABAD, Apr 5: Federal Minister for Religious Affairs, Sardar Muhammad Yousuf announced on Sunday that Hajj 2026 arrangements are fully prepared with no extra cost for 180,000 pilgrims, including 120,000 government and 60,000 private, with flights starting April 18 with exemplary arrangements and a new Lahore route added to existing services.

While exclusively speaking with PTV news in Riyadh, the Federal Minister stated that all arrangements for Hajj 2026 are being completed efficiently with no extra cost.

He announced that a total of 180,000 pilgrims will perform Hajj this year, including 120,000 under the government quota and 60,000 through private arrangements, ensuring fair access for all eligible pilgrims.

Highlighting improvements for this year, he revealed a new Lahore-to-Saudi Arabia route to facilitate easier travel for pilgrims, while flights from other cities will continue as scheduled.

The minister emphasized that all operations, including flights, accommodations and transport, will be organized in a smooth and exemplary manner to ensure the comfort and safety of all pilgrims.

He further stated that the Ministry of Religious Affairs will closely coordinate with private companies to regulate Umrah services, accommodations, catering and transport.

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

He highlighted that this year’s Hajj would fully utilize the Pakistani quota while maintaining exemplary standards, reflecting the commitment of both governments to facilitating a safe and memorable pilgrimage experience.

Responding to a query, he said that previously the Hajj route ran from Karachi to Islamabad, and now a new Lahore-to-Saudi Arabia route has been added to facilitate easier travel for pilgrims, while flights from other cities will continue as scheduled.