Pakistani pilgrims have expressed strong appreciation for the Saudi government’s “exceptional” management of this year’s Hajj, according to the Ministry of Religious Affairs, as Muslims around the world marked Eid al-Adha.
More than 115,000 Pakistani pilgrims performed the annual pilgrimage under both government-sponsored and private arrangements.
“I had a very good Hajj experience,” shared Nadia Sarfaraz from Karachi. “Everything went smoothly. We faced no issues. The Saudi government offered great support, and our own officials were very cooperative too.”
Rabia Babar, a pilgrim from Islamabad, highlighted the attention given to female pilgrims, noting the presence of separate lifts and fully carpeted areas in Muzdalifah, where pilgrims traditionally spend the night.
This year’s Hajj featured enhanced security measures and crackdowns on unauthorized pilgrims, alongside comprehensive heat-mitigation efforts. These included misting systems, drinking water stations, and improved crowd control, resulting in more manageable numbers at key sites in Makkah and surrounding areas.
“There were coolers and drinking water available everywhere,” Babar said. “They even provided large refrigerators, bottled water, and showers to help pilgrims cope with the heat.”
Faraz Latif from Quetta praised both the Pakistani and Saudi authorities for their coordination. He emphasized the importance of cleanliness and patience, not just during the pilgrimage but as lasting values to carry home.
“It will help you not just during Hajj but throughout your life,” he added.
The first return flight carrying Pakistani pilgrims is expected to land in Karachi on June 11, marking the beginning of the return journey for thousands who participated in the spiritual gathering.
