PIA reduces ticket price for Umrah. In a bid to alleviate the financial strain on Pakistani travelers undertaking Umrah pilgrimages, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has swiftly implemented a significant reduction in fares.
Effective immediately, these reduced rates will apply to journeys originating from major Pakistani cities including Lahore, Islamabad, Sialkot, Peshawar, Multan, and Faisalabad, all destined for Jeddah.
Passengers originating from Karachi and Quetta will now pay Rs79,000, while those traveling from other cities will be charged Rs87,000, excluding taxes, as reported by Samaa.
This move is anticipated to provide substantial relief to Pakistani pilgrims grappling with economic challenges.
The initiative comes at a crucial time when Pakistani pilgrims are facing economic hardships.
Also read: PIA to pay bonus to employees despite heavy loss
PIA’s decision is expected to lead to a surge in passenger volume and revenue, making the pilgrimage more accessible to a broader spectrum of travelers.
In related developments, the eagerly anticipated announcement of the Hajj Policy for 2024 has faced an unexpected delay.
This delay is attributed to ongoing efforts aimed at minimizing the overall costs associated with the Hajj packages.
The federal government, in a bid to accommodate a wider range of pilgrims, has introduced a more flexible 20 to 25-day Hajj package this year.
While unofficial reports had previously suggested that the cost for this year’s Hajj pilgrimage would be slightly above Rs. 1 million, the government has decided to retain the Sponsorship scheme, eliminating the need for balloting.
Caretaker Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, Aneeq Ahmed, has affirmed the commitment of the Saudi Arabian government to enhance facilities and services for Pakistani pilgrims during Hajj 2024.
However, discussions within the Pakistani legislative body have centered on the reduction of Pakistani Hajj Group Organizers (HGOs) from 905 to a mere 46.
Despite negotiations, it appears that the Saudi authorities may adhere to their decision, urging the religious affairs ministry to prepare for the upcoming Hajj accordingly.
As PIA reduces ticket price for Umrah, in a positive development, Saudi authorities have approved the extension of the ‘Road to Makkah’ project from Lahore and Karachi airports, with plans to expand it to airports in Peshawar and Quetta.
This initiative, part of Saudi Arabia’s Guests of God Service Program launched under Vision 2030, streamlines the arrival process for Hajj pilgrims.
Pilgrims are issued visas and provided with various services, including baggage facilities, at their respective countries’ airports, significantly reducing hassles upon arrival in Saudi Arabia.
PIA’s fare reduction and Saudi Arabia’s initiatives mark significant steps toward enhancing accessibility and easing the journey for Pakistani pilgrims, reflecting efforts to make religious obligations more attainable for all.
