ISLAMABAD (Kashmir English): Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is set to initiate direct flights from Riyadh to Sialkot and Multan, according to PIA Country Manager for Saudi Arabia Malik Bilal Ahmed.
Over 14 flights will fly to Riyadh from both cities, starting from October, the PIA country Manager said in an interview with state-run news channel PTV.
He stated that they are weekly flights intended to accommodate the rising travel demand. Each year, over 200,000 people fly from Riyadh to Pakistan, making these routes very essential.
First phase of Hajj 2026 applications completed
In another development, the first phase of Hajj applications concluded on Saturday with the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony receiving more than 71,000 applications through its online portal and designated banks.
According to the ministry’s spokesperson, the next phase will run from August 11 to 16, during which applications will be accepted along with the first installment of expenses. In this phase, unregistered intending pilgrims will also be eligible to apply.
Hajj applications by overseas Pakistanis
The spokesperson said overseas Pakistanis can submit Hajj applications through a close relative at any designated bank branch. They will be required to provide their medical fitness certificates upon arrival in Pakistan.
The spokesperson further clarified that the receipt of applications will be closed once the allocated quota is filled.
