Pakistan’s national carrier PIA has decided to increase the number of flights to Saudi Arabia after the kingdom announced that it is resuming the Umrah pilgrimage for international passengers.

“Starting Wednesday, the number of flights to Saudi Arabia will be increased to 40 per week,” PIA Spokesperson Abdullah Hafeez Khan informed, quoted Arab News. “Earlier, the airline was operating 23 flights per week,” he added.

The development comes after Pakistan announced it will accept applications for Umrah from the nationals from November 1 under the new regulations, in wake of the Saudi government's announcement to start Umrah pilgrimage for international pilgrims.

A few days ago, Saudi Arabia announced resuming the Umrah pilgrimage for international pilgrims from November 1 after the suspension of months amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The Saudi government took the decision after implementing extensive health precautions and COVID-19 guidelines.

However, the passengers would need to adhere to strict travel protocols, as per the Kingdom's Hajj Ministry the passenger would need to provide a negative PCR test no earlier than 72-hours before departure time in origin while a quarantine period of three days must be completed in the hotel.

Furthermore, each group must be accompanied by a registered guide as no individual will be allowed to perform the Umrah.