KEY POINTS
- Ministry of Religious Affairs will refund Rs3.45 billion to 67,377 Hajj pilgrims by October 31
- Pilgrims will receive refunds ranging from Rs12,000 to Rs110,000, with detailed breakdowns for each group
- Pakistan has introduced strict health and safety measures
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Ministry of Religious Affairs on Thursday confirmed the processing of refunds of the previous year for 67,377 Hajj pilgrims, amounting to a total of Rs3.45 billion.
The refunds, aimed at ensuring fairness and transparency in the Hajj process, will be credited directly to the pilgrims’ bank accounts by October 31, 2025.
In a press briefing, Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousaf said that refunds will be based on actual expenses incurred by the pilgrims.
A breakdown of the refunds shows that 14% of the pilgrims will receive between Rs12,286 and Rs12,000, while 16% will get refunds ranging from Rs13,000 to Rs25,000. In addition, 20,302 pilgrims will be refunded Rs75,000, and 408 pilgrims will receive Rs110,000.
For those pilgrims who are not eligible for refunds, the ministry clarified that they have already received services in line with their original payments.
Facilities for Pilgrims
As part of the government’s commitment to making the Hajj experience as smooth as possible, all pilgrims will receive essential items such as a trolley bag, a handbag, and scarves for women.
Furthermore, each pilgrim will be provided with a Saudi mobile SIM card, which includes internet access and up to 3.5 minutes of free calls, ensuring better connectivity during their pilgrimage.
Hajj Costs and Private Quota Bookings
For this year’s Hajj, the cost for the 40-day Hajj programme is set at Rs11,50,000, while those opting for the shorter Hajj will pay Rs12,00,000. The official scheme bookings have been completed, with private quota bookings nearly finalised.
Health and Safety Measures
Dr. Attaur Rehman, the Secretary of Hajj, addressed concerns regarding the health and safety of the pilgrims, stating that strict actions have been implemented to address any complaints.
This year, the government has enforced a stringent policy ensuring that individuals suffering from critical conditions, including final-stage cancer, tuberculosis, or pregnant women in their last months, will not be permitted to travel for Hajj.
The Ministry’s focus is clear: ensuring a smooth, transparent, and safe pilgrimage for all participants, while also maintaining strict adherence to health guidelines and financial integrity.
