Islamabad (Web Desk): Pakistan and Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) Arabia have signed an agreement for the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage, ensuring that the Pakistani pilgrims will best facilities during their sacred journey.
Federal Minister for Religious Affairs, Chaudhry Salik Hussain and Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Dr. Tawfiq Bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah, signed the annual arrangement.
According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Religious Affairs, 179,210 Pakistanis will perform the Hajj this year, with nearly half, 89,602 pilgrims, taking part through the government’s organized scheme, while the remainder will be facilitated by private operators.
One of the key aspects of this agreement is the commitment to offering the best services, including affordable accommodation in Mina, which will be provided at reduced rates.
The Saudi minister assured that all possible support will be extended to ensure that Pakistani pilgrims have a smooth and memorable experience.
Additionally, the agreement introduces a streamlined Hajj program that spans 20 to 25 days, offering pilgrims a more manageable and comfortable experience. Pilgrims will also have the flexibility to select their stay in Madina, with options ranging from four to eight days.
To enhance convenience, each pilgrim will receive a specially designed bag, which will contain a QR code for easy identification, along with important information about their journey.
A newly developed mobile application will also be available, providing real-time updates on group activities, flight schedules, accommodation details, and live maps of Hajj sites, ensuring pilgrims stay well-informed throughout their pilgrimage.
Religious Affairs Minister Chaudhry Salik Hussain is also slated to attend an international Hajj conference and exhibition in Jeddah, where additional agreements will be finalized with various entities tasked with providing services to pilgrims.
As per the 2025 Hajj policy, there are specific regulations, including the requirement for women to obtain approval from their husbands or parents before undertaking the pilgrimage, a restriction on children under the age of 12 from participating, and the necessity for all pilgrims to receive vaccinations authorized by Saudi authorities.
