Hajj 2026: More Than 103,000 Pakistani Pilgrims Reach Saudi Arabia

Pakistan’s Hajj flight operation has entered its final phase, with around 87% of pilgrims under the government scheme successfully arriving in Saudi Arabia through 388 flights over the past month, officials confirmed on Wednesday.

According to the Ministry of Religious Affairs Pakistan, the remaining 13% of pilgrims, approximately 15,321 individuals, are expected to reach the Kingdom within the next 96 hours, ahead of the commencement of Hajj rituals on the night between the 7th and 8th of Dhul Hijjah.

Spokesperson Umar Butt stated that the arrival process is progressing smoothly, with the total number of government scheme pilgrims reaching 103,513 so far. Of the total flights operated, 184 have landed in Madinah, while 229 flights have arrived in Jeddah, facilitating the large-scale movement of pilgrims.

Currently, around 95% of Pakistani pilgrims are in Makkah, while the remaining 5% are residing in Madinah. A total of 46,398 pilgrims traveled directly to Madinah, out of which 41,708 have already completed their stay and moved to Makkah, while 57,115 pilgrims reached Makkah via Jeddah.

The ministry further reported that 96% of welfare staff, totaling 1,517 personnel, have been deployed across Saudi Arabia to provide services, guidance, and medical assistance to pilgrims. This includes Hajj assistants, technical staff, and medical teams stationed in different sectors to ensure smooth operations.

Additionally, “Haram Guides” deployed around the Grand Mosque have already assisted over 20,000 pilgrims with navigation and guidance. In Madinah, 38,594 Pakistani pilgrims, including both men and women, have been facilitated to visit Riaz-ul-Jannah, one of the most revered sites in Islam.

To support the movement of pilgrims, transport arrangements have been significantly enhanced in Makkah. A fleet of 469 shuttle buses is now operating кругл-the-clock to transport pilgrims between their accommodations and the Haram for Umrah and daily prayers, with the highest activity recorded in key sectors of the city.

Officials stated that all arrangements are being finalized as the remaining pilgrims arrive, ensuring a smooth and well-coordinated Hajj experience for all Pakistani participants.