Umrah fares reduced for Pakistanis on immediate notice

WEB DESK: Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has swiftly reduced Umrah fares by up to Rs6,000, offering immediate relief to travellers.

The reduced fares, applicable for journeys to Jeddah from key cities including Lahore, Islamabad, Sialkot, Peshawar, Multan, and Faisalabad, have been implemented without delay.

From these specified cities, the round-trip Umrah fare to Jeddah is now Rs87,000, excluding tax. Meanwhile, travellers from Karachi and Quetta can avail of the reduced fare of s Rs79,000.

This move comes as a boon for Pakistani pilgrims grappling with the challenges of escalating inflation and a weakening rupee.

Anticipated to enhance passenger numbers and revenue for PIA, this reduction in Umrah fares has been warmly received by the public.

However, the much-anticipated announcement of the Hajj Policy for 2024 faced an unexpected delay. The press conference, initially scheduled by the Minister of Religious Affairs, was postponed.

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The Ministry of Religious Affairs cited ongoing discussions and endeavours to minimise the Hajj package cost as the reasons for this delay.

Sources revealed that the federal cabinet recently greenlit the Hajj Policy 2024.

Notable changes include the introduction of a shorter Hajj package lasting between 20 and 25 days, offering increased flexibility to potential pilgrims. Pilgrims now eagerly await further developments in this regard.