Waqas Hassan, a Pakistani entrepreneur, recently captured public attention with his unexpected transit through India, highlighting the complexities and possibilities of travel for Pakistani nationals. On March 20, 2025, Hassan boarded an IndiGo flight from Singapore to Saudi Arabia, which included a six-hour layover at Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport. His experience, shared through a viral Instagram video, has since sparked renewed discussions on travel regulations and cultural exchange between India and Pakistan.
In his video, Hassan excitedly shared, “This time I’m flying from Singapore to Saudi Arabia. And currently, I’m in Mumbai.” For many Pakistani citizens, transiting through India remains an unfamiliar and challenging option due to strict regulations. Pakistani passport holders are typically required to secure a transit visa through a complicated and time-consuming process, including prior reference approval that can take up to 90 days. Even with a visa, travelers are restricted to a 36-hour stay and must remain within the airport during layovers.
Waqas Hassan’s Surprising Transit Through India
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Despite these limitations, Hassan made the most of his time in Mumbai. He explored the airport’s facilities, indulged in local delicacies like vada pav, relaxed in the lounge, and even shopped for souvenirs. “It’s a pretty fun feeling,” he commented, reflecting on his brief yet enjoyable encounter with Indian culture.
Interestingly, Hassan’s experience also surprised airport staff. “When I gave them my passport at the airport, they also looked at me in surprise. They said not many Pakistani people do this, so it was a new experience for them as well,” he said. This reaction underscores how rare it is for Pakistani citizens to transit through India, even though the option exists under specific circumstances.
Hassan’s revelation that many Pakistani nationals, including himself, were unaware of the transit option has opened new conversations about the potential for increased travel between the two nations. “I have been travelling for 15 years. Nobody told me that we [Pakistanis] can transit through India. So when I booked this ticket, there was a slight bit of risk involved as well,” Hassan admitted.
His story quickly resonated on social media, with many expressing hope for improved travel relations between India and Pakistan. One user commented, “Pakistani awaam should be allowed to visit India and vice versa. I love you guys and no one is good or bad; we all are shades of grey.” Another added, “This is such a positive story—we need more of this!”
However, not everyone shared the same enthusiasm. Some questioned the significance of being confined to an airport, suggesting that the experience did not reflect true cross-border travel. Despite this, Hassan’s journey stands as a reminder of the human desire for connection and understanding, even in the face of political barriers.
The broader implications of Hassan’s experience extend beyond individual travel. His story highlights the need for more transparent travel regulations and increased diplomatic efforts to facilitate greater cultural exchange between India and Pakistan. For now, Hassan’s unique transit offers a glimpse into the possibility of bridging the gap between two historically tense neighbors through shared experiences and human connection.
