90,000 Pakistani Pilgrims Set to Perform Haj Under Government Scheme
Around 90,000 Pakistani pilgrims will perform Haj under the government’s scheme this year, as announced by Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony Minister Sardar Muhammad Yousuf. Pakistan, which has one of the highest Haj quotas globally, signed its annual Haj agreement with Saudi Arabia in January, allowing a total of 179,210 Pakistani pilgrims to participate. The government has introduced a new Haj Policy 2025, appointing a “Nazim” for every 100 pilgrims to enhance facilitation, with special provisions for hardship cases and low-income workers.
Haramain High-Speed Railway Sets New Record, Moves 48,000 Passengers in a Day
Haj 2025 Policy Introduces New Measures to Aid Pakistani Pilgrims
In a press conference in Lahore, the minister shared that Haj flights would commence on the 28th of next month. Officers from the religious affairs ministry will assist pilgrims at airports, and training programs are being emphasized to ensure smooth experiences in Saudi Arabia. The Saudi ministry for Haj has assured Pakistan of excellent arrangements for this year’s pilgrimage. The government offers two stay options: a traditional long stay of 38-42 days or a short stay of 20-25 days, adhering to Saudi regulations for Haj groups.
Niantic Sells Gaming Division to Saudi-Owned Scopely for $3.5B, Shifts Focus to Geospatial AI
In total – 179,210 Pakistani pilgrims to perform Haj this year
The cost for the government scheme ranges from Rs1,075,000 to Rs1,175,000, with an additional Rs55,000 for the animal sacrifice. Accommodations in Makkah, such as double-bed or triple-bed options, require extra deposits. The policy mandates vaccinations approved by Saudi Arabia and prohibits children under 12 from participating. Women must obtain consent from their husbands or parents to perform Haj, sparking discussions on the policy’s implications for inclusivity.
You might also like
- No Visa Required: Saudi Citizens Welcomed to Pakistan Anytime, Says Minister
- Five Pakistani Umrah Pilgrims Die in Saudi Bus Accident
- Haramain High-Speed Railway Sets New Record, Moves 48,000 Passengers in a Day
- Saudi Arabia Announces Shawwal Moon Sighted: Eid Al-Fitr Begins Sunday
- Niantic Sells Gaming Division to Saudi-Owned Scopely for $3.5B, Shifts Focus to Geospatial AI