All 79,000 Hajj applicants under government scheme declared successful, remaining 10,600 slots available on first come first serve basis

The Ministry of Religious Affairs announced on Tuesday that all 79,000 applicants for Hajj 2025 under the government scheme have been declared successful following the expiration of the December 10 application deadline. This marks a key milestone in preparations for the upcoming pilgrimage season.

Saudi Arabia has allocated a total quota of 179,210 pilgrims to Pakistan for Hajj 2025, split equally between the government and private schemes, with 89,605 slots available under each. While the government scheme has filled 79,000 slots, 10,605 vacancies remain, and applications for these will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.

Ministry spokesperson Muhammad Umar Butt shared that the week-long extension of the application deadline led to over 10,000 new submissions. Applicants have been advised to obtain computerized receipts from the relevant banks upon submission, as seat allocation will depend on the date and time mentioned on the receipts.

Once the government quota is fully subscribed, the ministry will announce the closure of applications. It also plans to release a schedule for the second installment of Hajj dues after the completion of allocations.

Hajj expenses for 2025 are expected to range between Rs1,075,000 and Rs1,175,000. Pilgrims must initially submit Rs200,000 with their applications, followed by Rs400,000 after selection, and the remaining balance by February 10, 2025. The policy also details cancellation penalties, including a Rs50,000 deduction from the first installment and Rs200,000 for failure to pay the third installment. No refunds will be granted for cancellations after February 10, 2025.

To streamline the process, the ministry has urged applicants to use the Pak Hajj Mobile App for updates on payment schedules, training sessions, and flight details. Proactive measures are being implemented to ensure a seamless Hajj experience for pilgrims.

Under the incumbent government’s Hajj policy, 1,000 seats have been reserved for hardship cases and 300 for low-income workers registered under the Employees Old-Age Benefit Institution (EOBI) or Workers Welfare Fund. Additionally, compensation for the heirs of deceased pilgrims has been increased from Rs1 million to Rs2 million.

Read all the Breaking News Live on pakistantimes.com and Get Latest English News & Updates from Pakistan Times. Follow us on Whatsapp channel for more.



Pakistan Times
Logo