To lessen the financial burden on pilgrims, Pakistan’s Minister for Religious Affairs, Chaudhry Salik Hussain, has announced a considerable reduction in the cost of Hajj packages.
At a press briefing, the minister presented two updated packages. The price of the 40-day Hajj package has been lowered by Rs25,000 to Rs1,050,000. Pilgrims who choose this package are required to pay Rs450,000 in a third installment. The price was reduced by Rs50,000 for those who opted for the shorter 25-day package, making the total Rs1,100,000 with a third installment of Rs500,000.
Between February 6 and 14, all pilgrims are required to deposit their third installment at specified banks. The ‘Pak Hajj’ mobile app will be used to handle payment notifications in order to expedite the procedure.
Additionally, Hussain provided a crucial update for travelers who completed the Hajj in 2024. Based on considerations including housing in Makkah, accommodations in Mina, and savings from lower airfares, a total of Rs4.75 billion will be reimbursed. Some pilgrims receive refunds ranging from Rs20,000 to Rs140,000; however, payouts vary. For instance, 3% of pilgrims are entitled to Rs140,000, while 26% would earn Rs90,000.
Fund transfers will begin in the upcoming days, and refunds will be handled by the selected institutions. These changes demonstrate the government’s attempts to lower the cost of the Hajj while also honoring the financial sacrifices of previous pilgrims.
