Karachi, the bustling metropolis in southern Pakistan, has been included in Saudi Arabia’s ‘Road to Makkah’ project, a significant development for next year’s Hajj pilgrimage. This initiative aims to streamline immigration facilities for pilgrims, allowing them to complete necessary procedures in Karachi instead of enduring long queues in Saudi Arabia.
Caretaker Religious Affairs Minister Aneeq Ahmed officially confirmed Karachi’s inclusion in the ‘Road to Makkah’ project during a meeting with Saudi Ambassador Nawaf Saeed Al Maliki and Saadul Harsi, Regional Director of the Muslim World League (MWL).
Originally implemented for pilgrims departing from Islamabad this year, the project has garnered praise for its efficiency. Following the minister’s recent visit to Saudi Arabia, discussions centered on expanding this service to Lahore and Karachi in preparation for the upcoming Hajj season.
The ‘Road to Makkah’ initiative is a vital component of Saudi Arabia’s Guests of God Service Program, launched in 2019 as part of the nation’s Vision 2030. This program is renewed annually, with participating countries including Malaysia, Indonesia, Morocco, and Bangladesh.
Under the ‘Road to Makkah’ project, Hajj pilgrims receive visas and a range of essential services, including baggage facilities, at their home country’s airports. Upon arrival in Saudi Arabia, pilgrims are transported directly to Makkah and Madina in designated buses, with their luggage delivered to their accommodation. This streamlined process alleviates many of the challenges and hassles traditionally associated with arriving in Saudi Arabia for the pilgrimage.
The agreement for this initiative was renewed in May, with Saudi Arabia’s Deputy Interior Minister, Dr. Nasser bin Abdul Aziz Al-Dawood, visiting Pakistan and meeting with then-Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah to solidify the partnership.
