Lahore, April 6: Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Religious Affairs, Sardar Muhammad Yousaf, announced that 90,000 pilgrims will perform Hajj in 2025 under the government Hajj scheme, ensuring streamlined arrangements and enhanced facilities for devotees. The announcement came during a press conference in Lahore, where the minister outlined key details about training programs, cost structures, and collaboration with Saudi authorities to ensure a seamless pilgrimage.
Minister Yousaf revealed that comprehensive training sessions for Hajj pilgrims are underway across multiple districts in Pakistan. These programs aim to educate pilgrims on rituals, health protocols, and logistical procedures to ensure compliance with Saudi Arabia’s Hajj regulations. “Our goal is to equip every pilgrim with the knowledge and resources needed for a spiritually fulfilling journey,” he stated. The minister also confirmed that officials from the Ministry of Religious Affairs will accompany Hajj flights to assist pilgrims throughout their travels.
This year, the total expense for pilgrims under the government Hajj scheme has been set at PKR 1.5 million. Minister Yousaf emphasized transparency, noting that any unutilized funds from the package will be refunded to pilgrims post-Hajj. “We are committed to ensuring accountability. Pilgrims will receive deductions for services not availed during their journey,” he added. The cost includes accommodation, transportation, and other essential services in Saudi Arabia.
Hajj flights under the government scheme will commence on May 28, 2025, with designated routes from major Pakistani cities to Saudi Arabia. The minister confirmed that all logistical arrangements, including accommodations in Mecca and Medina, have been reviewed and approved. During his recent visit to Saudi Arabia, Yousaf met with the Saudi Minister of Hajj to finalize collaborative measures, such as crowd management, health facilities, and security protocols.
Highlighting the role of community support, the minister announced that Pakistani volunteers will assist pilgrims during their stay in Saudi Arabia. These volunteers, trained in crisis management and hospitality, will work alongside Saudi authorities to ensure pilgrims’ safety and comfort. “Serving the guests of Allah is a sacred duty. Our volunteers will uphold Pakistan’s tradition of unity and service,” Yousaf said.
In light of global health concerns, the government Hajj scheme mandates vaccinations for all pilgrims. Minister Yousaf urged applicants to complete immunization requirements during training sessions, emphasizing that health certificates will be strictly enforced. “We have reviewed medical facilities in Mecca and Medina, but prevention remains our priority,” he stated.
Following his inspection of facilities in Mecca and Medina, Yousaf praised Saudi Arabia’s advanced preparations. “The Saudi government has made exceptional arrangements, from transportation to healthcare. Our pilgrims will experience a well-organized Hajj,” he remarked. He also reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties through collaborative Hajj operations.
Key Features of the Government Hajj Scheme 2025
- Quota: 90,000 pilgrims to perform Hajj under state sponsorship.
- Cost: PKR 1.5 million per pilgrim with refunds for unused services.
- Flights: Operations begin May 28, 2025, from major Pakistani airports.
- Training: Nationwide workshops on rituals, health, and logistics.
- Volunteers: Pakistani support teams to assist pilgrims in Saudi Arabia.
The government Hajj scheme continues to be a cornerstone of Pakistan’s efforts to facilitate religious obligations for its citizens. With robust training, financial transparency, and international cooperation, the 2025 pilgrimage aims to set new benchmarks in accessibility and safety for Pakistani pilgrims. Applications for the scheme are expected to open soon, with details available on the Ministry of Religious Affairs’ official portal.
