The National Assembly Standing Committee on Religious Affairs has directed the ministry to create a comprehensive framework to facilitate millions of Pakistani pilgrims who visit holy sites in Iraq and Saudi Arabia each year. In a meeting chaired by Committee Chairperson Shagufta Jumani, it was revealed that Iraq has recently imposed visa restrictions on men under 50 traveling alone. The committee held a detailed discussion on the pilgrim policy and instructed the ministry to continue the traditional “Salaar” mechanism for managing pilgrim groups.
New Title: Improving Facilities for Pilgrims and Official Delegations
The chairperson urged the ministry to launch awareness campaigns through print, electronic, and social media to guide pilgrims on travel rules, protocols, and safety measures. The panel also requested a subsidy package, including a $50 reduction in costs, similar to what is provided for Haj facilities. On air travel, the committee recommended consultations with Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) and other authorities to initiate direct flights from Karachi to Najaf. It further proposed establishing permanent facilitation desks at major airports and restoring Pakistan Houses in Makkah and Madinah to ensure dignified accommodation for pilgrims.
The committee emphasized that contracts for pilgrim services should be awarded to multiple reputable companies through a transparent process to improve competition and efficiency. Members also expressed dissatisfaction with the arrangements for the annual official delegation to Roza-i-Rasool (PBUH). They urged that the delegation be treated as state guests and that the standard operating procedures (SOPs) be reviewed. A subcommittee, headed by Ms. Jumani, was formed to draft recommendations. The committee reiterated the importance of ensuring the delegation’s timely departure and presence at Roza-i-Rasool on 12th Rabiul-Awwal every year, in view of the sanctity and significance of the occasion. It further recommended according the delegation the status of state guests to uphold Pakistan’s dignity during the sacred visit and urged consultations with Saudi authorities to secure an official invitation.
