Govt to Finalize Hajj Flight Schedule Soon, Confirms Ministry Official
The deadline for Hajj 2025 application submissions expires today, with the government receiving over 54,000 applications from aspiring pilgrims. The Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony expects the final tally to increase by midnight, anticipating full subscription of the government’s Hajj quota.
Application Process and Bank Facilitation
Spokesperson Muhammad Umar Butt revealed that 15 banks across the country were designated to collect applications and fees from Hajj aspirants, ensuring a smooth submission process.
Hajj Preparations in Progress
The ministry will soon finalize the Hajj flight schedule, with accommodation arrangements in Madina aligned with flight itineraries. Logistical services, including Maktab allocations, transportation, and meal provisions, are being organized in Saudi Arabia to accommodate pilgrims.
Instalment-Based Payment Plan
The surge in applications is largely attributed to the installment-based payment facility introduced under the regular Hajj scheme. Butt urged overseas Pakistanis to complete their sponsorship fund submissions by December 3 to secure their participation.
Hajj Costs and Payment Structure
For 2025, the cost of performing Hajj under the government scheme will range between Rs1,075,000 and Rs1,175,000, according to Minister for Religious Affairs Chaudhry Salik Hussain.
- Pilgrims must initially deposit Rs200,000 with their application.
- An additional Rs400,000 will be required upon selection through balloting.
- The remaining balance must be paid by February 10, 2025.
Refund Policy
In case of cancellation:
- Rs50,000 will be deducted from the first instalment.
- Rs200,000 will be forfeited for failure to pay the third instalment.
- No refunds will be processed after February 10, 2025.
Enhanced Compensation and Special Allocations
Under the revised Hajj policy:
- Compensation for heirs of deceased pilgrims has been increased from Rs1 million to Rs2 million.
- 1,000 seats will be reserved for hardship cases.
- An additional 300 seats will be allocated for low-income workers registered with the Employees Old-Age Benefits Institution (EOBI) or the Workers Welfare Fund.
With preparations in full swing, the government is committed to ensuring a seamless Hajj experience for the 179,210 Pakistani pilgrims expected to embark on the spiritual journey next year.
