MAKKAH: Following the conclusion of the three-day Tashreeq ritual, Muslims from around the world who gathered in Saudi Arabia for the Hajj pilgrimage will start their return journeys on June 20. The pilgrims have completed their Hajj rituals, including the symbolic stoning of the devil (Rami al-Jamarat) in Mina, and are now making their way back to Makkah.
After performing the essential rites, pilgrims headed towards the holy Kaaba to perform the farewell Tawaf. With these final rituals, the pilgrims have fulfilled their spiritual obligations and are preparing to depart for their home countries.
Local pilgrims have also begun their journeys back to cities such as Jeddah, Makkah, Taif, Madinah, Riyadh, and other regions within Saudi Arabia. Many pilgrims plan to visit Madinah upon returning to Makkah, where they will offer prayers at Masjid-e-Nabawi and pay their respects at the Roza-e-Rasool (PBUH).
During their stay in Madinah, they will also visit other significant religious sites, including Masjid-e-Quba, Masjid Al-Qiblatain, and the Sab’ah mosques.
Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has announced the commencement of its flight operations to bring back Pakistani pilgrims from Saudi Arabia starting June 20.
The Ministry of Religious Affairs of Pakistan reported that 259 special flights were operated last month to transport over 68,000 pilgrims who participated in the Hajj under the government scheme.
The Hajj, one of the five pillars of Islam, requires all Muslims with the financial and physical means to undertake the pilgrimage at least once in their lifetime. This year’s Hajj drew approximately 1.8 million pilgrims, including 1.6 million international participants, according to Saudi authorities.
As pilgrims return home, they carry with them not only memories of their spiritual journey but also the fulfillment of a significant religious duty, marking the end of one of the largest religious gatherings in the world.
