The repatriation of Pakistani pilgrims from Saudi Arabia after Hajj 2025 is scheduled to start on June 10. The first return flight, carrying 307 pilgrims, will depart from Jeddah at 11:50 PM and land in Islamabad at 3:00 AM.
Under the government scheme, a total of 342 flights will bring back 88,390 Pakistani pilgrims by July 10. Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) along with other airlines will operate these flights to major cities, including Islamabad, Lahore, Multan, and Karachi.
Read more: Hajj 2025 Saudi Arabia Issues Heatwave Alert
The first private airline flight is expected to bring 148 pilgrims to Karachi Airport on June 11 at 1:00 PM. Provincial Minister for Religious Affairs, Riaz Hussain Shah, will receive the pilgrims upon arrival.
Globally, 1,673,230 people performed Hajj this year, with 1,506,576 arriving from 171 countries. Saudi Arabia recorded 166,654 domestic pilgrims, achieving one of the most balanced gender ratios in Hajj history—877,841 men and 795,389 women.
Following last year’s tragic toll of 1,301 deaths due to extreme heat, Saudi authorities implemented extensive safety measures, including shaded areas, cooling stations, and increased medical support.
Strict enforcement against unauthorized pilgrims resulted in smaller crowds and better security management at holy sites. The conclusion of Hajj coincides with Eid al-Adha, marked by the ritual sacrifice of livestock such as goats, sheep, cows, or camels.
According to Saudi data, most pilgrims arrived by air (1,435,017), while 66,465 came via land and 5,094 by sea.Authorities have assured that the repatriation of pilgrims will be handled with utmost care to ensure a smooth and secure journey home.
