Hajj becomes more affordable as airfare drops

Ministry of Religious Affairs has negotiated a new deal with Pakistan International Airlines (PIA)

In a major step towards reducing the cost of Hajj for 2025, the Ministry of Religious Affairs has secured a significant reduction in airfare for pilgrims.

According to local media sources, each Haji will now pay $50 less for their flight compared to last year. In 2024, the cost per Haji was set at $850, a figure which has now been reduced.

The ministry has negotiated a new deal with Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), fixing the cost of each ticket at $800 for 35,000 pilgrims.

This deal is part of a larger effort to make Hajj more affordable for Pakistani citizens. Additionally, Saudi Airlines will also transport 35,000 pilgrims to the holy sites.

The decision is seen as a step in the right direction for making Hajj more accessible, particularly given the rising costs of travel and accommodation in recent years.

The reduction in airfare is expected to ease the financial burden on pilgrims, many of whom have struggled with the increasing costs of performing the pilgrimage.

Pakistan begins accepting Hajj 2025 applications

The process for submitting applications for the 2025 Government Hajj Scheme officially commenced today, with the window for applications running until December 3.

The Ministry of Religious Affairs announced that applications can be submitted at 15 nominated banks across the country.

Under the scheme, a total of 89,605 quotas have been allocated to Pakistani pilgrims for the upcoming Hajj season. Applicants are required to deposit Rs200,000 along with their initial application.

Following the draw on December 6, the second installment of the Hajj fees will be collected. The remaining balance must be paid between February 1st and 10th, 2025.

The Government Hajj Scheme includes a comprehensive package covering air tickets, food, accommodation, training, and necessary vaccinations for pilgrims.

In addition to the general scheme, there are 5,000 seats allocated for overseas Pakistanis under the sponsorship scheme. These seats are available on a "first come, first served" basis. Overseas Pakistanis can sponsor their own or their loved ones' pilgrimage by sending $4,225 to a designated bank.

The Ministry has also announced that, for the first time, first-time applicants will be given priority in the Hajj draw, aiming to provide new pilgrims with the opportunity to perform Hajj.

The official Hajj packages are designed to cater to the diverse needs of pilgrims, with both long and short duration packages available. The long package will last between 38 to 42 days, while the short package will be 20 to 25 days long, providing flexibility to suit different preferences.

As the registration period begins, authorities are urging all prospective pilgrims to ensure they meet the necessary requirements and complete their application process within the specified time frame.

Entire family to stay together during Hajj

The Ministry for Religious Affairs has chalked out a strategy for the provision of same accommodation to all members of a family during the Hajj pilgrimage. According to religious ministry sources, all members of the same family will also proceed to 'Riazul Jannah' of the Masjid-e-Nabwi (PBUH) together.

The step of keeping family members together during the Hajj was taken in view of difficulties they often face when they have separate accommodations.

The ministry has also directed the banks to collect en-mass the applications of the members of the same family.