Pakistan’s Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony has issued a travel advisory for Pakistani pilgrims visiting Iran and Iraq, urging them to verify flight bookings and prepare alternative travel arrangements to avoid disruptions.
According to a ministry spokesperson, pilgrims should reconfirm their flight schedules before departure, particularly when travelling with Iranian airlines. Those planning to travel from Tehran or Mashhad to Najaf have been advised not to rely on unconfirmed flights and to arrange backup options in advance.
The advisory aims to help pilgrims avoid unexpected travel delays, cancellations and additional expenses during their religious journeys.
Pilgrims Urged to Prepare for Flight Disruptions
The ministry has advised travellers to keep sufficient funds available to cover alternative air or land transportation between Iran and Iraq.
Pilgrims have also been urged to budget for additional accommodation and food expenses in case of flight cancellations or other unforeseen circumstances.
Travellers should contact their airlines or travel agents to confirm departure times, booking status and any changes to their itineraries before leaving for the airport.
Travel Organisers Directed to Inform Pilgrims
Registered Ziarat Group Organizers (ZGOs) have been directed to avoid preparing itineraries based on unconfirmed Iranian flights.
The organisers must also ensure that all pilgrims are informed of the advisory before departure so they can make suitable arrangements if their scheduled journeys are disrupted.
The guidance is particularly relevant to pilgrims travelling between Tehran or Mashhad and Najaf, a major destination for visitors to Iraq’s religious sites.
What Pakistani Pilgrims Should Do Before Departure
Pilgrims travelling to Iran and Iraq should take the following precautions:
- Confirm flight bookings: Contact the airline or travel agent directly before departure.
- Prepare backup transport: Identify alternative air or land routes if a scheduled flight is cancelled.
- Carry emergency funds: Allow for unexpected transport, accommodation and food costs.
- Stay in contact with organisers: Obtain updated travel information from registered ZGOs.
- Check official updates: Consult the Ministry of Religious Affairs and relevant airline notices for the latest guidance.
Pilgrims should confirm the latest arrangements before beginning their journey, as flight schedules and transport availability can change.
For official information and further guidance, travellers can consult the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony.
