Pakistan Restricts Arbaeen Pilgrimage to Air Travel Amid Security Concerns, PIA Launches Special Flights

Pakistan Restricts Arbaeen Pilgrimage to Air Travel Amid Security Concerns, PIA Launches Special Flights
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Pakistani pilgrims intending to participate in the upcoming Arbaeen pilgrimage to Iran and Iraq will be restricted to air travel this year, with road travel prohibited due to national and public security concerns, Dawn E-Paper reported. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi announced the decision following consultations with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Balochistan Government, and security agencies.

Despite the road ban, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed authorities to maximize flight arrangements for pilgrims. Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has already commenced a special flight operation, with flights to Najaf, Iraq, running from August 8 to 11 and return flights scheduled from August 18 to 23. The fare for these special flights has been set at $675 per passenger, though pilgrims are advocating for reduced fares and increased flight availability due to high demand.

Looking ahead, Pakistan plans to introduce a new travel management system from January 1, 2026, transitioning from the traditional Salar System to a Zaireen Group Organizers model, requiring pilgrims to travel under registered organizers. Furthermore, weekly flights to Iran are set to increase from six to fifteen, alongside 107 special flights for Iraqi pilgrims.

In related news, discussions between PM Shehbaz and Minister Naqvi also focused on the law and order situation in Balochistan, with directives issued to advance the Gwadar Safe City project for enhanced security.