The sacred journey of Hajj, one of the five pillars of Islam, comes to a close for thousands of Pakistani pilgrims as the first return flight from Saudi Arabia is scheduled to depart on Tuesday night at 11 PM. This marks the beginning of the post-Hajj return operation, during which pilgrims will be transported back to their home country after completing the spiritual rites of Hajj in the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah.
A Smooth Transition for Returning Pilgrims
According to official sources, the inaugural return flight will leave from Jeddah’s King Abdulaziz International Airport and is expected to land in Pakistan in the early hours of Wednesday. The Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony has confirmed that this flight is part of a large-scale return operation involving multiple airlines, including Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) and several Saudi carriers.
Over 70,000 Pakistani pilgrims undertook the Hajj journey this year under both government and private schemes. With the Hajj rituals now concluded, the process of bringing these pilgrims back home has commenced in an organized and phased manner. The return flights are scheduled to continue over several weeks, ensuring that all pilgrims arrive safely and comfortably.
Government Coordination and Support
The Ministry of Religious Affairs has deployed dedicated teams at Saudi airports to assist Pakistani pilgrims during the check-in, immigration, and boarding processes. Special counters have been set up at Jeddah and Madinah airports to facilitate quick processing and to offer logistical support.
Additionally, the Pakistani consulate in Jeddah has arranged for transportation, medical assistance, and luggage handling for returning pilgrims. Authorities have emphasized their commitment to ensuring a smooth and dignified return for all pilgrims, especially elderly individuals and those with special needs.
Pakistan’s Minister for Religious Affairs, in a statement released earlier this week, praised the cooperation between Saudi authorities and Pakistani Hajj mission staff, stating that this year’s pilgrimage was "one of the most organized and peaceful in recent years." He also thanked the Saudi government for their hospitality and logistical support during the Hajj days.
Family Reunions Await
As the first batch of pilgrims prepares to land in Pakistan, anticipation and excitement are high among families eagerly awaiting the return of their loved ones. Social media platforms are filled with emotional messages and updates, while airports in major cities such as Lahore, Islamabad, Karachi, Peshawar, and Quetta are gearing up to receive thousands of returning pilgrims.
Many families have made traditional arrangements to welcome their returning relatives, including floral garlands, celebratory meals, and prayers of gratitude. For those who stayed back, this return marks a moment of immense joy and spiritual fulfillment, knowing their loved ones have successfully completed one of the most important religious journeys in Islam.
Feedback from Pilgrims
Preliminary feedback from pilgrims has been overwhelmingly positive. Many have praised the improved arrangements made by both Pakistani and Saudi authorities, particularly in terms of accommodation, transportation, and food services. Technological upgrades, such as digital tracking of luggage and enhanced communication channels through mobile apps, played a key role in minimizing confusion and improving the pilgrim experience.
Some pilgrims noted that although the weather in Saudi Arabia was extremely hot, sufficient arrangements had been made to provide shade, cooling tents, and hydration points, especially during the physically demanding days of Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah.
What’s Next?
Following the arrival of the first return flight, the Ministry of Religious Affairs will continue to oversee the phased return of all remaining pilgrims. Daily flight schedules have been prepared, and pilgrims have been informed in advance about their return dates. The last return flight is expected to depart in mid-July, officially concluding the 2025 Hajj season for Pakistan.
Authorities have also announced that a comprehensive post-Hajj review will be conducted to assess the strengths and shortcomings of this year’s arrangements. This review will be crucial for future planning and for addressing any issues raised by pilgrims during their journey.
A Moment of Spiritual Reflection
For many pilgrims, the end of Hajj is not just about returning home—it marks a spiritual transformation. Completing the Hajj rites is a deeply personal and life-changing experience, and pilgrims are encouraged to carry the lessons of humility, patience, and devotion into their everyday lives.
As Pakistan welcomes back its citizens from the holy land, this homecoming stands as a testament to faith, endurance, and unity among Muslims across the world.
Reference: حاجیوں کی واپسی کی پہلی حج پرواز منگل کو رات گیارہ بجے سعودی عرب سے روانہ ہو گی
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