The Pakistani government has launched a new initiative for citizens planning to undertake the Hajj pilgrimage in 2025.
A proposal to the federal cabinet suggests allowing pilgrims to pay their expenses in three installments instead of requiring full payment upfront.
Read more: Hajj 2025: Pakistan Unveils New Health Policy
The estimated cost for Hajj is approximately 1.1 million rupees. Under the proposed plan, applicants would make an initial down payment of 200,000 rupees to apply for Hajj. Once selected through a lottery, they would need to pay an additional 400,000 rupees, with the remaining balance due before departure.
Officials from the Ministry of Religious Affairs indicated that this installment option aims to make the pilgrimage more affordable for those who struggle to pay the total cost at once.
The Hajj policy allocates a quota of 179,000 pilgrims from Pakistan, equally divided between government and private tour operators. Special provisions will be made for hardship cases and low-income workers to enable greater participation in this significant religious journey.
The new guidelines also prohibit children under 12 from participating and require individuals with serious health issues to submit medical certificates.
This initiative demonstrates the government’s commitment to making the Hajj experience accessible to a broader population, ensuring financial limitations do not impede access to this important religious duty.
