The Ministry of Religious Affairs has officially launched the registration process for Haj 2024 under the government scheme, and this will continue until December 12.
According to a spokesperson, applications for next year’s Haj are now being accepted by designated banks.
Applicants can submit their applications with a passport valid until December 16, 2024, and the Haj application can also be processed using a passport application token.
The ministry anticipates around 89,605 Pakistani pilgrims participating in Haj under the government scheme, with the possibility of conducting balloting if applications exceed the allotted number.
A noteworthy change is that, for the first time, women will have the opportunity to undertake the sacred journey without the traditional requirement of a male companion.
The sponsorship scheme allocates 25,000 seats on a first-come, first-served basis.
Caretaker Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Dr Aneeq Ahmed announced a significant reduction of Rs0.1 million in government Haj expenses last week ephasizing “uncompromised facilities.
Islamabad and Karachi’s inclusion in Saudi Arabia’s Road to Makkah project is expected to streamline the immigration process for pilgrims departing from Karachi airport.
Furthermore, the government has introduced a 20-day short Haj package to enhance financial accessibility for citizens.
Dr Ahmed disclosed that Pakistan has secured 179,000 Haj seats, with half reserved for private Haj operators.
The Ministry of Religious Affairs will oversee these operators, ensuring pilgrims’ well-being.
Dr Ahmed clarified that the announced package excludes qurbani (sacrifice) expenses during Haj.
Intending pilgrims opting for a shorter stay in Medina will receive an additional reduction of Rs 35,000 in Haj expenses.
