Umrah pilgrims stranded in Lahore are facing difficulties after a private foreign airline abruptly canceled their flight to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Over 300 passengers have been waiting in Lahore since Wednesday.
The airline reportedly canceled the flight at the last moment, citing a technical problem with the aircraft. Many pilgrims had already received boarding passes and were dressed in ihram when they were informed.
Passengers said they have been staying in a hotel in Lahore for three days. They added that the airline has not provided clear updates on when they will be able to depart.
One pilgrim explained, “We were told at the last moment that the flight was canceled due to a technical fault. Airline officials shifted us to a hotel and assured us we would fly the next morning. That promise has not been fulfilled.”
The stranded pilgrims had already booked accommodations in Makkah and Madinah. Delays have caused concern, as three days have passed without their departure.
Passengers also highlighted the financial strain, saying they paid hundreds of thousands of rupees for tickets. They expressed frustration over the lack of response from the airline’s management.
The group has demanded that the airline arrange their travel to Jeddah immediately, without further delays, so they can complete their Umrah pilgrimage as planned.
