Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony Sardar Muhammad Yousaf has expressed hope that this year’s Hajj will be exemplary as compared with previous years.

Talking to the State Media in Makkah today, he said exceptional arrangements have been in place by Pakistani Mission for the intending pilgrims.

The Minister said all camps in Mina will be air-conditioned to ensure a comfortable environment. The camps will be equipped with sofa-cum-beds, allowing Hujjaj to use them for both sitting and sleeping. Ample storage space will also be provided in the form of elevated storage racks for luggage.

He said Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif especially sent him to Saudi Arabia to oversee arrangements for the guests of Allah.

He highlighted that 100 percent accommodation for Pakistani pilgrims has been arranged in the Markazia area of Madinah, which is at walking distance from Masjid Nabawi (SAWW).

Lauding the dedication of entire Hajj mission team, Sardar Yousaf urged them to leave no stone unturned in provision of the best possible facilities to the pilgrims.

He also expressed gratitude to the Saudi authorities for their continued support and cooperation in ensuring smooth arrangements for Pakistani pilgrims.

The Minister once again advised the intending pilgrims to strictly follow the rules, regulations and instructions issued by the Saudi government, as these are designed to ensure the smooth and safe conduct of Hajj.

He urged them to pray for the peace, progress, and prosperity of Pakistan, the unity of the Muslim Ummah, and for the oppressed Muslims of Gaza and Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).

Regarding the Hajj flight operation, Sardar Yousaf said in the first phase, Pakistani pilgrims are being transported to Madinah, while the remaining pilgrims will be airlifted directly to Makkah.

Earlier, the Minister received the guests of Allah, coming from Mandinah, in Makkah’s hotel. On the occasion, DG Hajj Abdul Wahab Soomro, Director Aziz-ullah Khan, Coordinator Zulfiqar Khan and officials of Saudi Company Al Rajihi were also present. Special gifts were presented to the incoming pilgrims as well.