Islamabad, Pakistan – The Ministry of Religious Affairs has announced significant changes for Hajj pilgrims preparing for the upcoming Hajj 2025. Pilgrims under the government scheme are now permitted to modify their Hajj packages, departure locations, and sacrifice options before the January 2 deadline. After this date, no further changes will be allowed.
Hajj Package Changes Allowed Before January 2
The Ministry of Religious Affairs spokesperson emphasized that pilgrims can visit their respective banks to make any desired changes to their Hajj packages, including alterations to their departure points and sacrifice options. This flexibility is granted as part of the ministry’s efforts to accommodate pilgrims’ preferences.
Extended Deadline for Hajj Fee Payment
In addition to the package change offer, the deadline for submitting the second installment of the Hajj fee for government scheme pilgrims has been extended until January 2. Failure to make the payment by this date will result in the cancellation of the Hajj application, and any deposited fees will be refunded after a deduction.
Hajj Application and Quota Information
Government Extends Hajj Application Deadline
The government extended the official Hajj application period three times to accommodate more pilgrims.
Shortfall in Applications
Despite the extensions, there was a shortfall of 7,000 applications compared to the allocated Hajj quota.
Total Applications Submitted
By the end of the third extension period, 82,000 Hajj applications were submitted.
Ministry’s Decision
The Ministry of Religious Affairs declared all 82,000 applicants successful, ensuring they would be granted the opportunity to perform Hajj.
Key Hajj 2025 Details in Table Form
| Hajj Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Hajj Quota for Pakistan | 179,210 pilgrims |
| Government Scheme Quota | 89,605 pilgrims (50% of total quota) |
| Private Scheme Quota | 89,605 pilgrims (50% of total quota) |
| Total Applications Received | 82,000 |
| Number of Applications Below Quota | 7,000 fewer applications than allocated |
| Cost for Government Scheme Pilgrims | Rs1,075,000 to Rs1,175,000 |
| Deadline for Package Changes | January 2, 2025 |
| Deadline for Fee Payment | January 2, 2025 |
| Refund Conditions | Deposited payment refunded after deduction if payment is not made |
Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Hajj 2025 Pilgrims
- Package Changes: Pilgrims can modify their Hajj packages, departure points, and sacrifice options before January 2.
- Payment Deadline: The second installment of the Hajj fee must be paid by January 2 to avoid application cancellation.
- Quota and Applications: Despite three extensions, Pakistan received fewer Hajj applications than the allocated quota, with 82,000 applicants being successfully selected.
- Cost Estimates: The estimated cost for the government Hajj scheme in 2025 ranges from Rs1,075,000 to Rs1,175,000.
These developments provide important details for Pakistani pilgrims planning their journey for Hajj 2025.
