Overview
- Pakistan’s religious affairs ministry rejected reports of any suspension of Hajj flights, saying arrangements continue as planned and the schedule will be announced after Eid al-Fitr.
- The minister earlier indicated the first Hajj flight would depart on April 18, though officials say detailed schedules will be released closer to departure.
- The ministry directed private Hajj operators to complete visa processing by March 15, and HOAP has asked for a five-day relaxation of that internal target.
- Saudi Arabia set Umrah deadlines for this season, with visa issuance ending on the first of Shawwal, entry required by the 15th of Shawwal, and departure by the first of Dhul Qadah, and it reiterated that Hajj requires a valid Hajj visa.
- Officials report biometrics completed for over 119,000 intending pilgrims, confirm Pakistan’s Hajj quota at 179,210 split between government and private schemes, and note that PIA and Saudia will operate Hajj flights.