In a positive development for Umrah pilgrims, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has announced the commencement of direct flights from Quetta and Faisalabad to Jeddah, reported 24NewsHD TV channel Thursday.

The decision comes in response to persistent demands from the pilgrims.

Starting from August 6, PIA will operate direct Umrah flights twice a week from both cities.

This new service is expected to significantly ease the travel process for Umrah aspirants, providing them with a more convenient and efficient route to Jeddah.

Earlier, The PIA announced a 15percent discount on airfares for Umrah pilgrims travelling from Toronto to Saudi Arabia via Lahore.

According to the 24NewsHD TV channel, this discount applies to PIA tickets purchased from this month, July, until November 15, 2024.

As per the announcement of the national airline, passengers can travel on these discounted tickets from August 1 to November 15.

The TV channel reported that PIA has already started the Umrah ticket sales process.

Reporter: Saeed Ahmed Saeed