The government of Pakistan has announced a significant reduction in airfare for pilgrims performing Hajj in 2025, offering financial relief through a new package that cuts the airfare by $50 per person. This move is set to benefit those enrolled in the federal Hajj program, with an overall relief of Rs. 1.24 billion.
The airfare for Hajj 2025 has been reduced by Rs. 14,000 compared to last year, bringing the cost down to Rs. 220,000 per person, from Rs. 234,000 in 2024. This marks the second consecutive year that flight costs for Hajj pilgrims have been lowered.
Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), Saudi Airlines, and several private Pakistani carriers have agreed to participate in the relief initiative. Around 89,605 pilgrims are expected to benefit from this reduction, with 40% of them flying with PIA, another 40% with Saudi Airlines, and the remaining 20% with private carriers.
The Ministry of Religious Affairs is in the process of finalizing agreements with private airlines following discussions with PIA.
Earlier in November, the Pakistan government announced the Hajj Policy 2025, with costs ranging between PKR 10.75 lakh to PKR 11.75 lakh, excluding an additional PKR 55,000 for sacrificial animals. Pilgrims will have the option to pay in installments, with an initial payment of PKR 200,000 at the time of application, followed by another PKR 400,000 if selected, and the remaining amount due between February 1 and 10, 2025.
The new policy also allows women to perform Hajj without a male guardian, as long as they submit a sworn affidavit from their father or husband. Additionally, 5,000 pilgrims can join through the dollar scheme, while private schemes will allocate 30,000 spots based on sponsorship.
The government has also introduced a shorter Hajj package of 20-25 days for those participating under the official scheme.
