ISLAMABAD: The government is deliberating on an installment plan to support low-income and middle-class citizens preparing for the Hajj pilgrimage.
Under the proposed plan, pilgrims will have the option to pay their Hajj expenses in three installments instead of a lump sum. This initiative has been submitted for approval by the federal cabinet.
Sources suggest that this installment option is part of the government’s comprehensive Hajj policy, which is anticipated to gain the Ministry of Religious Affairs’ endorsement.
The new payment structure will allow prospective pilgrims to cover a total cost of Rs 1.1 million in three parts. Initially, applicants will need to pay a deposit of Rs 200,000. Following a lucky draw selection process, an additional Rs 400,000 will be required, with the remaining balance due before departure.
Officials from the Ministry of Religious Affairs emphasized that this plan aims to ease the financial burden often faced by lower and middle-income groups, thereby making Hajj more accessible.
Last month, the federal cabinet approved the Hajj Policy for 2025, estimating government-sponsored Hajj packages to range between Rs 1.75 million and Rs 11.75 million. The policy allocates a total quota of 179,000 pilgrims from Pakistan, evenly distributed between government and private tour operators, with each entity receiving 89,605 slots. Additionally, special quotas are set aside for hardship cases and low-income workers registered with the Employees’ Old-Age Benefits Institution (EOBI).
In 2025, pilgrims will have the choice between two travel durations: a longer trip lasting 38 to 42 days or a shorter option of 20 to 25 days. New guidelines will also prohibit children under the age of 12 from participating in the pilgrimage.
