No Increase in Airfare for Pakistani Hajj Pilgrims Despite Global Oil Price Surge
Riyadh: The Ministry of Religious Affairs has confirmed that Pakistani pilgrims traveling for Hajj 2026 will not face any increase in airfare, despite the recent rise in global oil prices.
Federal Minister for Religious Affairs, Sardar Muhammad Yousuf, arrived in Riyadh, where he was welcomed by senior leaders of the Pakistan Muslim League-N, including Sheikh Saeed Ahmad, Mahmood-ul-Haq Dogar, and Adnan Iqbal Butt.
During his visit, the minister highlighted that all arrangements for Hajj 2026 have been finalized. Pakistani pilgrims will begin arriving in Saudi Arabia from April 18. With the support of the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, comprehensive facilities for accommodation, meals, and travel have been arranged in Makkah and Madinah.
For the first time, over 25,000 Pakistani pilgrims will have access to high-speed train services between Makkah and Madinah. Additionally, excellent facilities will be provided at Mina, Muzdalifah, and Arafat during the Hajj rituals.
The minister emphasized that, despite the rise in oil prices worldwide, no increase in airfare will affect Pakistani pilgrims. Pakistan’s government has secured agreements with airlines to ensure pilgrims are transported according to the pre-determined packages.
Sardar Muhammad Yousuf also noted that Hajj operations will be carried out successfully through mutual cooperation, taking into account the current regional situation.
