[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text dp_text_size=”size-4″]The designated banks have commenced accepting applications for Hajj 2024, spanning from November 27 to December 12, at all branches nationwide.
Long-Term Hajj Packages: Stay Durations and Rates
Long-term Hajj packages comprise a regular scheme offering a 38 to 42-day stay, including eight days in Madinah. The regular scheme rate is Rs1,065,000 for the South Region (Karachi, Quetta, and Sukkur).
For the North Region and other cities, the regular scheme rate is set at 1,075,000.
Under the sponsorship category, the long-term package rate is $3,765 for the South Region and $3,800 for the North Region and other cities.
Short-Term Hajj Package Details: Duration and Expenditures
The short-term Hajj package spans 20 to 25 days with three to five days in Madinah, incurring total expenditures of Rs362,500 ($1,275) per pilgrim.
The regular scheme rate is 1,140,000 for the South Region and 1,150,000 for the North Region and other cities.
In the sponsored Hajj scheme, the per pilgrim package rate is $4,015 for the South Region and $4,050 for the North Region and other cities.
According to the Ministry of Religious Affairs, the expenditures for sponsored Hajj range from $3,645 to $5,220, depending on the city and facilities.
For the regular Hajj scheme, expenditures range from 1,030,000 to 1,390,000, also depending on the city and facilities.
The total expenditures for the long-term package amount to Rs355,000 ($1,250) per pilgrim, while the short-term package incurs Rs362,500 ($1,275) per pilgrim.
Govt’s Reduction in Hajj Expenses and Facilities
Caretaker Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Dr. Aneeq Ahmed announced a significant reduction of 0.1 million rupees in government Hajj expenses on November 23, ensuring uncompromised facilities.
Pilgrims will receive a 30kg suitcase each, and female pilgrims will be provided scarfs (Abaya) featuring the national flag for the first time.
Also Read: Hajj 2024 Application in Pakistan Through Banks
Dr. Ahmed highlighted the introduction of a mobile application to assist pilgrims, offering navigation guidance and maintaining constant contact with relevant officials. The app, initially available in English and Urdu, will later include various regional languages.
Improvements in the Hajj process include Islamabad and Karachi being incorporated into Saudi Arabia’s Road to Makkah project, allowing Karachi airport to complete the immigration process for Hujjaj, streamlining their journey.
The government introduced a 20-day short Hajj package to enhance financial accessibility for citizens. Efforts are underway to accommodate Pakistani Hujjaj in tents at Old Mina due to challenges posed by the distance to New Mina.
Also Read: Govt Announces Exemption of COVID-19 Vaccine Requirement for Hajj 2024
Pakistan has secured 179,000 Hajj seats, with half reserved for private Hajj operators. The Ministry of Religious Affairs will oversee these operators to ensure pilgrim well-being.
Ongoing renovation work at the Haji Camp Karachi building reinforces the commitment to enhance pilgrimage facilities.
Dr. Aneeq clarified that the announced package excludes Qurbani (sacrifice) expenses during Hajj. Intending pilgrims opting for a shorter stay in Medina will receive a further reduction of Rs35,000 in Hajj expenses.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
