The Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony recently unveiled the much-anticipated Hajj Policy 2025, providing clarity and detailed information on the upcoming year’s pilgrimage process and costs. Chaudhry Salik Hussain, Minister for Religious Affairs, addressed key aspects, including the expected Hajj cost, accommodation options, installment plans, and quota allocations, marking significant updates to ease the Hajj journey for Pakistani pilgrims.

Cost of Hajj Under the Government’s Scheme

The government has set the Hajj cost for 2025 between Rs1,075,000 and Rs1,175,000 under the official scheme, with an additional Rs55,000 for the sacrificial offering. This is a significant increase from previous years, and applicants will need to prepare accordingly. For those seeking premium accommodations in Makkah, double-bed and triple-bed rooms will require additional deposits of Rs220,000 and Rs75,000, respectively, to secure more comfortable arrangements.

Installment Plan for Financial Flexibility

Understanding the financial burden Hajj expenses can entail, the government has introduced a flexible installment payment option. Under this plan, applicants are required to pay the first installment of Rs200,000 along with their application. Following the balloting, the second installment of Rs400,000 must be submitted within 10 days. The remaining amount is due by February 10 of the following year. This installment option aims to ease the financial pressure for families, making Hajj more accessible to all segments of society.

Refund Policies and Penalties

The Ministry has also outlined specific guidelines for refunds in the event of withdrawal. If an application is withdrawn before the final deadline, no deductions will be made. However, if the withdrawal occurs after balloting, a fee of Rs50,000 will be deducted from the first installment. An additional penalty of Rs200,000 will apply if the third installment is missed. For cases of death, no deductions will be imposed, ensuring that families are not financially burdened by unforeseen circumstances.

Quota Distribution and Sponsorship Scheme

For 2025, the Ministry has allocated 179,210 seats, split equally between the government and private Hajj schemes. Additionally, 5,000 seats are reserved for the government’s sponsorship scheme, which requires sending foreign exchange through official banking channels. The scheme operates on a “first come, first served” basis, removing the need for balloting and offering a straightforward path for early applicants.

Enhanced Compensation for Pilgrims

An important change in this year’s policy is the increase in compensation for pilgrims. In the unfortunate event of death during Hajj, the compensation has been raised from Rs1 million to Rs2 million, with Rs1 million allocated for serious injuries. This is a welcome update that underscores the government’s commitment to supporting pilgrims and their families in difficult times.

Accommodations and Age Restrictions

The government has also announced accommodation regulations in line with Saudi requirements. Organized Hajj groups must consist of at least 2,000 members to ensure better lodging and logistical arrangements. Additionally, children under the age of 12 will not be allowed due to safety and health concerns, particularly related to the extreme heat in Saudi Arabia.

With these detailed policies, the Government of Pakistan aims to make the 2025 Hajj experience smoother, more affordable, and more accessible. For prospective pilgrims, it’s essential to be aware of these updates and plan accordingly to ensure a fulfilling journey.

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