In a significant development, the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony announced on Friday that the Hajj policy for the year 2024 is set to be unveiled within the next two weeks. Under this new policy, women in Pakistan will have the opportunity to perform Hajj without mehram.
Furthermore, the ministry revealed that the federal cabinet is expected to approve the Hajj policy within the next ten days. Once approved, the Hajj application process for the upcoming year will be initiated, providing prospective pilgrims with the opportunity to plan their sacred journey.
In addition to these changes, the ministry has also implemented stricter rules regarding the sighting of the crescent moon, a crucial factor in determining the start of Islamic months and the timing of events like Hajj and Ramadan. According to the new regulations, only the Ruet-e-Hilal committee will have the authority to announce the sighting of the crescent moon. Private committees will no longer be allowed to make such announcements, as recommended by the ministry.
These policy changes come with the promise of improved services and facilities for Pakistani pilgrims during Hajj 2024. Caretaker Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, Aneeq Ahmed, shared that the Saudi Arabian government has pledged to provide additional facilities and enhanced services to ensure a more comfortable and convenient experience for Pakistani pilgrims. This includes improvements in accommodation, meals, and transportation.
Dr. Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah, the Saudi Minister for Hajj and Umrah, reiterated Saudi Arabia’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with Pakistan. He emphasized that the Saudi government is dedicated to continuously enhancing services for Pakistani pilgrims. Several new initiatives have been taken to ensure their comfort and convenience, reflecting the close ties between the two countries in matters of faith and pilgrimage.
The forthcoming Hajj policy for 2024 in Pakistan marks a significant step forward for women’s participation in the pilgrimage, as they will now have the option to perform Hajj without a mehram. These changes are accompanied by a commitment from Saudi Arabia to provide improved services and facilities, promising a more comfortable and rewarding experience for Pakistani pilgrims in the years to come.
