MEDINA: Following the successful and smooth culmination of the annual Hajj rituals, a massive repatriation operation has officially commenced for the return of the ‘Guests of Allah’ to their respective homelands.
New Travel Guidelines Issued
In this regard, the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, along with the General Authority for Civil Aviation (GACA), has issued urgent new travel guidelines and directives for millions of pilgrims from across the globe, including 119,000 Pakistani pilgrims, to ensure seamless movement and prevent congestion at airports.
According to the latest advisory issued by the Saudi authorities, all foreign Hajj missions and pilgrims have been strongly urged to strictly adhere to the designated organisational frameworks and departure schedules.
Pre-Departure Requirements
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has made it mandatory for pilgrims to complete their standard pre-departure check-in processes and necessary documentation before heading to the airports. To avoid potential delays, operational hassles, or missed flights, pilgrims have been directed to arrive at their respective airport terminals at least four hours prior to their scheduled flight times.
Furthermore, to maintain discipline inside departure halls and lounges and to ensure passenger safety, Saudi Customs has instructed all pilgrims to meticulously follow customs regulations and terminal directional signs. Pilgrims have also been cautioned never to leave their luggage unattended or unsupervised anywhere within the airport premises.
Outbound Operational Plan
Meanwhile, the General Authority for Civil Aviation (GACA) has finalised and implemented its comprehensive outbound operational plan across various international airports in the Kingdom. Specialist teams dedicated to quality assurance, inspection, and monitoring are working round-the-clock at all international terminals. These teams are continuously evaluating compliance with the highest safety and security standards both within the airports and during aircraft boarding processes to guarantee a safe, secure, and hassle-free departure experience for the pilgrims.
According to Saudi official spokespersons, these coordinated efforts and stringent monitoring mechanisms reflect the Kingdom’s unwavering commitment to providing top-tier care and hospitality to the ‘Guests of Allah’ until they safely reach their homelands, mirroring the high standards maintained throughout the core Hajj season.
Appeal to Pakistani Pilgrims
Concurrently, the Pakistan Hajj Mission has also appealed to its 119,000 pilgrims to fully comply with the regulations set by the Saudi authorities to ensure that the return flight operations run smoothly without any disruption to the schedule.
