Pakistan Unveils Comprehensive Hajj Policy 2025

Religious Affairs Minister and Interfaith Harmony Minister Chaudhry Salik Hussain on Monday unveiled the Hajj Policy 2025 in Islamabad, following its approval from the federal cabinet last week.

The Hajj policy for 2025 introduces several key changes and improvements for Pakistani pilgrims.

Here are the main points of the new policy:

Quota and Costs

Pakistan’s total Hajj quota for 2025 has been set at 179,210, equally divided between government and private sector arrangements.

The cost for Hajj 2025 will range from Rs1,075,000 to Rs1,175,000, with an additional Rs55,000 for sacrificial offerings.

Hajj applicants opting for double-bed and triple-bed accommodations in Makkah would need to deposit an additional amount of Rs220,000 and Rs75,000 respectively.

New Regulations and Facilities

• Children under 12 years old will not be allowed to travel for Hajj this year
• A computerized balloting system will be used to manage the government’s quota
• 1,000 seats are reserved for hardship cases, and 300 seats for low-income workers registered with the Workers’ Welfare Fund or EOBI
• The “Road to Makkah” initiative will continue at Islamabad and Karachi international airports
• A new position of “Nazim” will be created, with one appointed for every 100 pilgrims to oversee their welfare

Enhanced Compensation

The compensation for pilgrims has been significantly increased:

• Families of deceased pilgrims will receive Rs 2 million, up from Rs 1 million
• Injured pilgrims will be compensated with Rs 1 million

Improved Pilgrim Experience

• A new Hajj management application has been launched to provide greater convenience and support
• Special arrangements have been made for pilgrim training
• Priority in Hajj balloting will be given to first-time performers
• The Hajj group organisers would sign a service provider agreement with the Ministry of Religious Affairs

Payment Options

Pilgrims will be allowed to pay the Hajj fee in instalments, making it more financially manageable for many.

The first instalment of Hajj dues, amounting to Rs200,000, must be deposited along with the Hajj application under the Government Hajj Scheme, Salik announced, adding that the second instalment of Rs400,000 must be deposited within 10 days of the balloting.

The remaining amount must be deposited by February 10 next year, he added.

These changes aim to enhance the overall Hajj experience for Pakistani pilgrims, providing better support, increased compensation, and improved facilities for the sacred journey in 2025.