Hajj Flight Schedule for Pakistani Pilgrims (2025)

Introduction

Hajj, the annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca, holds profound significance for Muslims worldwide. For Pakistani pilgrims planning to undertake this sacred journey in 2025, understanding the flight schedules, airline options, baggage allowances, visa requirements, and pricing is crucial for a seamless experience.

Hajj Flight Schedule for Pakistani Pilgrims (Key Dates)

The Saudi Civil Aviation Authority has officially unveiled the Hajj 2025 flight schedule. According to reports, Hajj operations will commence on April 29, 2025 (1st Dhu al-Qi’dah), with return flights starting from 13th Dhu al-Hijjah and continuing until 15th Muharram 1447 AH.

The Government of Pakistan has allocated a quota of 179,210 pilgrims for Hajj 2025, divided equally between government and private tour operators.

Airlines Serving Pakistani Pilgrims

Several airlines facilitate Hajj travel from Pakistan to Saudi Arabia, offering various options to accommodate the large number of pilgrims. The availability of direct and connecting flights, baggage allowances, in-flight services, and pricing all play a crucial role in selecting the right airline for the pilgrimage.

1. Pakistan International Airlines (PIA)

As the national flag carrier, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) plays a significant role in transporting pilgrims to Saudi Arabia. The airline has been operating special Hajj flights for decades and continues to be a preferred choice due to its familiarity with the requirements of Hajj travelers.

• Hajj Flight Operations: PIA’s Hajj flights will commence on May 21, 2025, with the last departure scheduled for June 20, 2025. The airline will operate direct flights to Jeddah and Medina from major cities, including Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, Peshawar, Quetta, Multan, and Sialkot.
• Dedicated Hajj Terminals: PIA provides dedicated counters at major airports for smooth check-in and baggage processing for pilgrims.
• Baggage Allowance: Economy class passengers are typically allowed 30 kg of checked baggage, while business class passengers receive 40 kg.
• Special Services: PIA offers exclusive Hajj assistance, including special meals, in-flight religious recitations, and additional ground staff at Saudi airports for seamless transfers.
• Return Flights: After the completion of Hajj, PIA will begin return flights from July 1, 2025, to August 10, 2025.

2. Saudi Airlines (Saudia)

Saudi Airlines (Saudia) is a top choice for many Hajj pilgrims due to its extensive flight network and specialized services tailored for religious travelers.

• Extensive Route Network: Saudia operates nonstop flights from multiple Pakistani cities to Jeddah and Medina, ensuring greater accessibility for pilgrims.
• Premium Hajj Services: Saudi Airlines provides dedicated Hajj flights, offering additional baggage allowances, special meal services, and priority processing for pilgrims.
• Baggage Allowance: Pilgrims traveling with Saudia are allowed two pieces of checked luggage, each weighing up to 23 kg, totaling 46 kg.
• Exclusive Lounges: Premium and business class passengers flying with Saudia can access special lounges at Saudi airports, providing a more comfortable waiting experience before departure.
• Flight Schedule: Specific Hajj flight schedules for 2025 will be announced closer to the pilgrimage season, with departures from Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi, and other major cities.

3. Other International Airlines

Several international carriers also operate flights from Pakistan to Saudi Arabia, providing alternative travel options for pilgrims. These airlines often offer premium services, flexible ticketing options, and more connecting flight choices.

Emirates

• Connecting Flights via Dubai: Emirates offers connecting flights from Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, and Peshawar to Jeddah and Medina via Dubai.
• Increased Baggage Allowance: Emirates Hajj packages include additional baggage allowances, ensuring pilgrims can carry essential items.
• Onboard Services: Arabic-speaking cabin crew, halal meal options, and a comfortable transit experience enhance the journey.

Qatar Airways

• Transit in Doha: Qatar Airways provides seamless connectivity with transit layovers in Doha, catering to pilgrims flying from Pakistan.
• Hajj Pilgrim Services: The airline offers priority check-in, group seating, and special prayer arrangements for travelers.

Etihad Airways

• Convenient Layovers in Abu Dhabi: Pilgrims traveling on Etihad Airways can connect via Abu Dhabi before reaching Saudi Arabia.
• Custom Hajj Travel Experience: Offers flexible rebooking, special baggage allowances, and religious services on board.

Choosing the Right Airline for Hajj 2025

Selecting the best airline for Hajj travel depends on several factors:
✅ Direct vs. Connecting Flights – Direct flights via PIA or Saudia reduce travel time, while Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Etihad offer premium services with layovers.
✅ Baggage Allowances – Airlines like Saudia and Emirates provide extra baggage options, useful for carrying essential pilgrimage items.
✅ Pricing & Packages – Government-subsidized PIA flights are cost-effective, while premium airlines offer flexible ticketing and better amenities.
✅ In-Flight Services – Special Hajj meals, prayer arrangements, and religious recitations enhance the pilgrimage experience.

By comparing these options, Pakistani pilgrims can choose the airline that best suits their budget, schedule, and comfort needs for Hajj 2025.

Baggage Allowances

Baggage policies vary among airlines, and understanding the specific allowances can help Hajj travelers pack appropriately and avoid unexpected fees. Airlines have established special baggage policies for pilgrims, ensuring they can carry essential items for their spiritual journey.

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA)

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), the national carrier, has traditionally offered generous baggage allowances for Hajj pilgrims.

• Economy Class: 30 kg of checked baggage
• Business Class: 40 kg of checked baggage
• Hand-Carry Allowance: 7 kg carry-on bag per passenger

✅ Additional Benefits:
✔ Special Baggage Allowance for Religious Items – PIA allows pilgrims to carry religious essentials, such as prayer mats, Ihram, and holy books, without additional charges.
✔ Priority Handling – Dedicated baggage counters at Saudi airports streamline baggage collection upon arrival.

Saudi Airlines (Saudia)

Saudi Airlines (Saudia) is a top choice for Hajj and Umrah travelers, offering generous baggage policies tailored for the pilgrimage.

• Checked Baggage: Two pieces of luggage, each weighing up to 23 kg, totaling 46 kg per passenger
• Cabin Baggage: One carry-on bag not exceeding 7 kg

✅ Exclusive Perks for Pilgrims:
✔ Additional Free Bag for Holy Water (Zamzam) – Saudia provides a free 5-liter Zamzam water allowance on return flights.
✔ Hajj-Designated Luggage Tags – Saudia issues special identification tags to facilitate organized luggage handling at Jeddah and Medina airports.

Other International Airlines

Several global airlines operating Hajj flights from Pakistan provide varying baggage policies, often with options to purchase additional weight allowances.

Emirates Airlines

• Economy Class: 30-35 kg checked baggage (varies by ticket type)
• Business Class: 40-50 kg checked baggage
• Cabin Baggage: 7 kg carry-on for economy, 10-12 kg for business/first class
• Zamzam Water Allowance: 5 liters permitted as an additional checked item.

✅ Perks for Pilgrims:
✔ Priority Baggage Service – Pilgrims get priority handling for smooth baggage claim at Saudi airports.
✔ Flexible Baggage Upgrades – Emirates offers extra baggage purchase options, ideal for those needing more space.

Qatar Airways

• Checked Baggage: 30 kg for economy, 40-50 kg for business class
• Cabin Baggage: 7 kg for economy, 15 kg for business class
• Zamzam Allowance: 5-liter bottle of Zamzam water permitted in addition to regular baggage.

✅ Special Features:
✔ Hajj Priority Boarding & Baggage Services – Dedicated counters ensure pilgrims get their luggage quickly upon arrival.

Etihad Airways

• Checked Baggage: 35 kg for economy, 50 kg for business/first class
• Cabin Baggage: Up to 12 kg for business class passengers
• Zamzam Allowance: One 5-liter Zamzam bottle allowed in addition to standard baggage allowance.

✅ Benefits for Pilgrims:
✔ Seamless Baggage Transfers – If flying with multiple airlines, Etihad ensures baggage is checked through to the final destination.

Tips for Managing Your Baggage During Hajj Travel

✔ Weigh Your Bags Before Departure: Use a digital luggage scale to avoid excess baggage fees.
✔ Label Your Luggage: Clearly mark your bags with your name, contact details, and Hajj group ID for easy identification.
✔ Use Airline-Approved Luggage: Some airlines have size restrictions for checked baggage—always check beforehand.
✔ Keep Essentials in Carry-On: Important items like medications, travel documents, and valuables should be in your hand luggage.
✔ Zamzam Water Rules: Always check with your airline on specific regulations for carrying Zamzam water, as excess liquid restrictions may apply.

By understanding airline baggage policies in advance, Hajj pilgrims can ensure a stress-free journey, avoiding last-minute issues with excess weight fees or luggage restrictions. Always check with your airline before departure for the latest baggage updates for Hajj 2025.departure to avoid any inconveniences.

Visa Requirements for Hajj Pilgrims

Obtaining a Hajj visa is a crucial step in preparing for the pilgrimage to Mecca, Saudi Arabia. The Saudi government has specific regulations in place to ensure a smooth and well-organized entry for all pilgrims. Travelers from Pakistan and other countries must adhere to these visa guidelines to avoid any delays or rejections.

1. Application Process

Pilgrims must apply for a Hajj visa through authorized Hajj operators or the Ministry of Religious Affairs (MoRA) of Pakistan. The application process follows these key steps:

• Government-Sponsored Hajj: Pilgrims applying under the government quota must register with the Pakistan Ministry of Religious Affairs (MoRA) during the designated period. The selection process is usually through a lottery system.
• Private Hajj Operators: Those opting for a private Hajj package must apply through an authorized tour operator. These agencies provide customized packages, including flights, accommodations, and transport.
• Online Visa Processing: The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has introduced electronic visa (eVisa) systems to simplify processing, allowing Hajj visas to be issued digitally.

✅ Important Deadlines:
✔ Application Window: Hajj visa applications typically open 3-6 months before the pilgrimage and must be completed before the final deadline set by Saudi authorities.
✔ Hajj Visa Issuance: Visas are generally issued four weeks before the departure date.

2. Required Documents

Applicants must submit the following documents to complete their Hajj visa application:

✔ Valid Passport: Must have at least six months of validity beyond the Hajj travel date.
✔ Recent Passport-Sized Photographs: Required for visa processing, with a white background.
✔ Proof of Mahram (For Female Pilgrims): Women under 45 years must travel with a Mahram (male guardian), such as a husband, father, or brother. Females over 45 can travel in groups without a Mahram but must provide a notarized No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their guardian.
✔ Confirmed Flight Ticket & Accommodation Details: Proof of round-trip flight bookings and hotel reservations in Saudi Arabia is mandatory.
✔ Hajj Permit: Pilgrims must obtain an official Hajj permit (Tasreeh) issued by Saudi authorities.
✔ Health and Vaccination Certificates: Proof of mandatory vaccinations must be submitted along with the application.

🚨 Note: Tourist and Umrah visas cannot be used for Hajj. The Hajj visa is issued exclusively for the pilgrimage and has a strict validity period.

3. Vaccination Requirements

To ensure the health and safety of pilgrims, the Saudi Ministry of Health mandates certain vaccinations before issuing Hajj visas.

🔹 Mandatory Vaccinations:
✔ Meningitis (ACWY Vaccine): A mandatory vaccine to protect against meningococcal infections. The certificate must be issued at least 10 days before departure.
✔ COVID-19 Vaccination: Pilgrims must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 with approved vaccines such as Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca, or Sinovac. A vaccination certificate with a QR code must be submitted.
✔ Polio Vaccine: Pakistani travelers must take the Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV) at least 4 weeks before travel.
✔ Flu Vaccine (Recommended): While not mandatory, a seasonal flu vaccine is highly recommended for added protection.

📝 Important Notes:

• Proof of Vaccination: Pilgrims must carry an officially stamped vaccination certificate during their journey.
• Health Screening at Airports: Saudi authorities conduct random health checks upon arrival, so ensure all vaccination documents are in order.

4. Special Considerations for Hajj 2025

Saudi Arabia has implemented new digital systems to streamline visa issuance and ensure a more efficient Hajj experience.

✔ Nusuk Hajj Platform: A one-stop digital service allowing foreign pilgrims to apply for Hajj visas, book accommodations, and access travel information.
✔ Biometric Verification: Some countries, including Pakistan, may require biometric registration before travel to verify identity.
✔ E-Hajj Card: Saudi authorities may introduce an E-Hajj card for better tracking of pilgrim movements during their stay.

5. Travel Advisory for Hajj Pilgrims

✔ Verify Visa & Ticket Information: Ensure all details match exactly on your visa, passport, and airline ticket to avoid any airport issues.
✔ Follow Saudi Entry Guidelines: Saudi immigration strictly enforces visa policies—do not attempt to enter with an incorrect visa type.
✔ Use Authorized Hajj Operators: To avoid scams or fraud, book only through government-approved travel agencies.

By understanding the visa requirements for Hajj 2025, Pakistani pilgrims can prepare ahead of time, ensuring a smooth and stress-free pilgrimage experience. Always consult the Ministry of Religious Affairs and your airline for the latest updates before travel.

Pricing and Packages for Hajj Pilgrims

The cost of Hajj packages varies depending on accommodation quality, duration of stay, transportation options, and services included. Pilgrims from Pakistan have two primary options: Government-sponsored Hajj packages or Private Hajj packages, each offering different pricing and facilities.

With Hajj 2025 expected to have high demand, early booking is strongly recommended to secure preferred packages and benefit from possible discounts.

1. Government Hajj Packages (MoRA Pakistan)

The Government of Pakistan organizes subsidized Hajj packages in collaboration with Saudi authorities to make the pilgrimage affordable for a larger number of citizens.

A. Pricing for Hajj 2025 Government Packages

✔ Hajj Airfare: The Pakistani government has reduced Hajj airfare to PKR 220,000 for 2025, reflecting a PKR 14,000 decrease from previous rates.
✔ Total Package Cost: Government Hajj packages are expected to cost between PKR 1,075,000 – PKR 1,150,000 for the Northern region and PKR 1,035,000 – PKR 1,110,000 for the Southern region.

🚨 Note: These prices are subject to change based on currency exchange rates and Saudi Hajj policy updates.

B. Services Included in Government Packages

✅ Standardized Accommodation – Pilgrims stay in designated hotels or residential buildings close to Masjid al-Haram in Mecca and Medina.
✅ Round-Trip Flights – Government packages include return airfare from major Pakistani cities (Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi, Peshawar, Quetta, Multan, and Sialkot).
✅ Ground Transportation – Special buses and shuttle services are provided for pilgrims in Saudi Arabia.
✅ Meals and Food Services – Most government packages include three meals daily throughout the pilgrimage.
✅ Hajj Guidance & Medical Support – Pakistani Hajj Mission Offices provide religious guidance, emergency assistance, and healthcare services.

✔ Eligibility Criteria:

• Applicants must be Pakistani citizens with valid passports.
• First-time Hajj travelers are prioritized in government packages.
• Women under 45 years must travel with a Mahram (male guardian).

✔ Hajj Balloting System:

• If the number of applicants exceeds the available quota, a random computerized lottery draw selects the final list of pilgrims.

✔ Payment Method:

• Payment is made through designated banks after the ballot results are announced.

2. Private Hajj Packages

For those unable to secure a government package or seeking a customized Hajj experience, private Hajj operators offer flexible pricing and a variety of accommodation options.

A. Pricing for Private Hajj Packages

Private Hajj packages generally cost more than government-sponsored packages, with prices ranging from:

✔ Basic Private Hajj Package: PKR 1,400,000 – PKR 1,800,000
✔ Standard Private Hajj Package: PKR 1,800,000 – PKR 2,500,000
✔ VIP & Luxury Hajj Package: PKR 2,500,000 – PKR 4,000,000+

💡 Factors Affecting Private Hajj Package Costs:

• Accommodation Proximity: Hotels closer to Masjid al-Haram in Mecca and Masjid an-Nabawi in Medina cost significantly more.
• Duration of Stay: Packages with extended stays (up to 40 days) tend to be more expensive.
• Flight Class: Economy-class flights are more affordable, whereas business and first-class airfare significantly increase costs.
• Exclusive Services: Personal guides, private transportation, and premium meal options are available in luxury packages.

3. Comparing Government vs. Private Hajj Packages

Feature	Government Package	Private Package
Pricing	Lower, subsidized	Higher, varies based on services
Accommodation	Standardized, dorm-style housing	3-star, 4-star, and 5-star hotel options
Food & Meals	Basic meal plan included	Custom meal plans available
Transportation	Fixed routes (buses/shuttles)	Private transport (optional upgrade)
Guidance & Support	Pakistani Hajj Mission Assistance	Personalized Hajj coordinators (optional)
Application Process	Lottery-based (limited spots)	First-come, first-served basis

4. Early Booking Benefits

Booking a Hajj package early has several advantages:

✔ Lower Costs – Prices tend to rise closer to Hajj season due to high demand.
✔ More Package Choices – Early applicants get better accommodation and flight options.
✔ Smoother Visa Process – Early visa submission reduces processing delays.
✔ Easier Installment Payments – Some private operators offer flexible installment plans for early bookings.

5. Special Discount Programs for Hajj 2025

Saudi Arabia and various airlines occasionally offer discounted Hajj travel packages for certain categories:

✅ Senior Citizens Discount – Some tour operators offer discounted fares for pilgrims over 60 years old.
✅ Group Discounts – Large families or group bookings can receive special package discounts.
✅ Early Bird Offers – Some private Hajj operators provide promotional discounts for bookings made before the end of 2024.

Recap About Pricing

The cost of Hajj 2025 depends on several factors, including government subsidies, flight class, hotel category, and package duration.

📌 Key Takeaways:

• Government Hajj packages are the cheapest option, but they have limited slots and require lottery selection.
• Private Hajj packages offer greater flexibility, with prices ranging from basic to ultra-luxury experiences.
• Booking early ensures better pricing, preferred accommodations, and a stress-free visa process.

For the latest pricing updates, pilgrims should stay informed through official government announcements and licensed Hajj operators.

Additional Tips

• Stay Updated: Regularly check official announcements from the Ministry of Religious Affairs and your chosen airline for any changes or updates.
• Health Precautions: Adhere to all health guidelines, including vaccinations and any COVID-19 related protocols.
• Documentation: Ensure all necessary documents are prepared and verified well in advance of your departure date.

By thoroughly understanding the flight schedules, airline options, baggage allowances, visa requirements, and pricing structures, Pakistani pilgrims can ensure a spiritually fulfilling and hassle-free Hajj experience in 2025.