Hajj Application Process to Begin November 18, Announces Minister Salik Hussain

Federal Minister for Religious Affairs, Chaudhry Salik Hussain, has confirmed that the submission of Hajj applications for this year will start from November 18 and continue until December 3. Speaking at a press conference, he shared that Pakistan’s Hajj quota for the year has been set at 189,000 pilgrims, with 89,500 of these allocated for the government-sponsored program. Saudi regulations now stipulate group sizes of 2,000 participants.

The minister highlighted a new initiative allowing pilgrims to pay Hajj expenses in installments, easing the financial burden. Notably, children under 12 will not be permitted to undertake Hajj this year. Furthermore, families of pilgrims who pass away during Hajj will receive compensation of PKR 2 million. Salik emphasized that despite the rising cost of goods, the government has managed to prevent an increase in Hajj expenses.

He also mentioned that refunds will be processed for last year’s pilgrims, with plans to return PKR 100,000 each as soon as funds are available. Noting the significantly higher costs of Hajj for those traveling from Europe and Canada, he indicated that unfilled slots from the overseas quota would be reallocated to the government scheme.

Salik also noted that discussions with the State Bank of Pakistan have addressed currency exchange concerns. Additionally, measures are being taken against individuals and companies facilitating begging under the guise of Umrah, with strict actions promised against violators.

Projected costs for the government Hajj program range from PKR 1,075,000 to PKR 1,175,000, with an optional PKR 55,000 for the Qurbani (sacrificial offering).