Madinah: The arrival of intending pilgrims under the government Hajj scheme has commenced in Madinah Munawwarah. The first flight, carrying 393 pilgrims from Islamabad, landed at Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport on Tuesday.

According to Radio Pakistan, Pakistan’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Farooq Ahmed, along with Director General Hajj Abdul Wahab Soomro, Director Hajj Madinah Zia ur Rehman, and Consul General in Jeddah Khalid Majeed, welcomed the pilgrims. Representatives from Saudi Tawafa and Pakistani airlines were also present to greet the arriving passengers.

The pilgrims were transported to their residences in special buses provided for their convenience. Upon arrival at their hotels, they were warmly received and presented with flowers, chocolates, dates, and refreshments, reflecting Saudi cultural traditions.

Ambassador Farooq Ahmed took the opportunity to inquire about the well-being of the pilgrims and praised the excellent arrangements made by the Saudi authorities, relevant departments, and the Pakistan Hajj Mission to facilitate the smooth arrival and comfort of the pilgrims.