ISLAMABAD: Saudi Arabia has approved an additional Hajj quota of 10,000 pilgrims for Pakistan, further strengthening the long-standing ties between the two brotherly nations.
The development came following a special request made by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar to Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud. The increase in quota reflects the Kingdom’s special regard for the people of Pakistan and highlights the close cooperation between the two countries.
With this increase, the number of Pakistani pilgrims performing Hajj under the official scheme will now exceed 100,000.
Earlier, Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yusuf announced that Hajj flights from Pakistan will commence on April 29. He confirmed that around 90,000 pilgrims were already set to travel under the government scheme, and additional arrangements are now being made to accommodate the increased quota.
Speaking about the preparations for Hajj 2025, the minister stated that the first training session for pilgrims has already been completed. He emphasized the importance of traveling well-prepared and noted that the government is taking all necessary measures under the guidance of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, including ensuring vaccinations for pilgrims.
He also shared that the cost for long-term Hajj has been set at Rs1,050,000, while the short-term Hajj will cost Rs1,150,000. Any surplus funds from the Hajj packages will be refunded to the pilgrims, he added.
Efforts are underway to ensure that all arrangements meet high standards, with both Pakistan and Saudi Arabia working closely for a smooth pilgrimage experience.
