Stories by M Bilal Hassan

The story of a Sunni pilgrim at Arbaeen

As I saw the first rays of the sun caress the dome of Imam Hussain's shrine, the words of my fellow pilgrims rang in my ears; I really was handpicked for this journey. Updated 15 Aug, 2025 01:42pm

Witnessing the Russia-Ukraine conflict play out in Serbia

I’d literally just been in town for an hour and it was already wild. Nothing made sense. Absolutely nothing. Updated 01 Nov, 2022 09:47pm

A weekend in Nepal — the roof of the world

The country has much to offer — high mountains, rich history and great food — but does not feature on the local holiday radar. Published 17 Jun, 2022 11:34am

10 things travellers planning to visit Pakistan need to know

Plan, plan and plan some more because each region of the country is starkly different from the other. Updated 14 Jan, 2020 01:09pm

'For a second you’d be mistaken into thinking that Neymar and Messi were from Lyari'

It was loud and chaotic — this was Pakistani football at its rawest and finest. Updated 27 Jun, 2018 05:29pm

What sets Bahrain apart is the friendly locals and stunning coastlines

From the artistic neighbourhoods, charming people and rustic souqs – the small island nation is genuine and unique. Updated 09 May, 2019 03:51pm

Qatar: My 12-hour layover in the world's most expensive art hub

I found it incredulous how Doha had changed so much from my previous transit about three years ago. Updated 10 Jun, 2017 03:27pm

Souqs and street art: The lesser-known Riyadh

I won't lie, I travelled to Saudi Arabia with some preconceived notions. Updated 12 Jan, 2016 05:00pm

From Karachi to Keenjhar — exploring lower Sindh's exquisite monuments

Lower Sindh has great potential for commercial tourism, but sadly all historical monuments lie in a state of neglect. Updated 21 Dec, 2015 04:47pm

Downtown Karachi: A street called love

From Zaibunissa Street towards St. Patricks Cathedral, every block is inhabited by a different religious community. Updated 18 Aug, 2015 05:29pm