Saudi Crown Prince orders launch of “Road to Makkah Project” at Karachi airport

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has ordered the launch of the "Road to Makkah Project" at Jinnah International Airport in Karachi to streamline the immigration process for intending Hajj and Umrah pilgrims.

According to the Civil Aviation Authority, a Saudi delegation, accompanied by their consul general, arrived at Jinnah Airport on Sunday to oversee arrangements for the project.

Under this initiative, the lengthy immigration process for pilgrims will be conducted at Karachi Airport, eliminating the need for them to undergo a similar process upon arrival in airports at Jeddah or Madina. 

Pilgrims will be able to travel directly to their hotels using their own transport without having to wait to fulfill any immigration requirements.

Acting Jinnah International Airport manager warmly welcomed the Saudi delegation and briefed on the journey of Hajj pilgrims from arrival to immigration.

After a meeting with the technical team for the enhancement of the immigration process, the Saudi delegation also met officials of Airport Security Force, FIA and Customs during its visit.

The designated lounge for Hajj pilgrims at Jinnah International Airport will be announced soon. 

Immigration staff and other relevant officials will install the necessary computer systems at their counters.

Jinnah International Airport will be the second in Pakistan to launch the “Road to Makkah Project”, while Islamabad airport already has similar arrangements for pilgrims.