In a heartfelt and urgent move, the Government of Pakistan has submitted a final written appeal to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, urging the reinstatement of the private Hajj quota 2025. This critical step comes as 67,000 Pakistani pilgrims have been excluded from this year’s Hajj due to administrative and technical lapses, sending shockwaves through the affected families and the wider public.
67,000 Pakistani Pilgrims Left in Limbo
According to the Ministry of Religious Affairs, an unfortunate combination of technical errors and delays in the payment process led to the exclusion of 67,000 pilgrims under the private Hajj scheme. These pilgrims, many of whom are elderly, had completed all requirements, including payments, and were eagerly awaiting the spiritual journey of a lifetime.
The Ministry emphasized that the funds have already been transferred to Saudi service providers, and thus, the exclusion is not due to any financial inadequacy from the pilgrims’ side. The government’s appeal passionately requests that Saudi Arabia consider allocating any available space in Mina for these pilgrims, especially given the once-in-a-lifetime nature of Hajj for many elderly participants.
A Formal Written Appeal in English and Arabic
Taking the matter with utmost seriousness, the Ministry prepared and sent a formal letter in both English and Arabic to the Saudi Hajj authorities. This appeal highlights the emotional and spiritual turmoil being faced by the affected pilgrims and stresses the urgency of granting a special allowance as a humanitarian gesture.
The letter underscores the advanced age of many of the excluded pilgrims, expressing that this may be their only opportunity to fulfill this important Islamic obligation. It describes their pain and disappointment as “beyond words” and asks for compassion rooted in Islamic brotherhood.
A Promise for Future Compliance
Acknowledging the missteps that led to this crisis, the Ministry of Religious Affairs has pledged strict future compliance with all Hajj deadlines and regulations. Officials have assured the Saudi authorities that from 2026 onward, the private Hajj operators in Pakistan will adhere to all technical and administrative requirements to avoid such incidents.
The appeal requests the Saudi government to see this request as a demonstration of unity, empathy, and religious solidarity. Granting access to the 67,000 pilgrims would not only resolve an administrative crisis but also reinforce the spiritual bonds shared between the two nations.
The Bigger Picture: Ensuring Pilgrims’ Rights
This incident sheds light on the need for robust planning, efficient systems, and better coordination between governments and private Hajj operators. For many, Hajj is not just a ritual—it’s a culmination of years of savings, prayer, and hope. The exclusion of thousands has caused widespread distress, and Pakistan’s final appeal represents not only a government’s concern but also the voice of thousands of its citizens.
As the countdown to Hajj 2025 continues, Pakistan—and its 67,000 hopeful pilgrims—await a merciful and favorable response from Saudi Arabia.