Chaudhry Salik Hussain, Pakistan’s Minister of Religious Affairs, revealed a new Hajj Policy for 2025 on Monday. It includes a system for payment that allows pilgrims to pay their Hajj costs in installments. This action aims to reduce the financial strain on those making the trip, which is one of the five pillars of Islam and an adventure that millions of Muslims all over the world eagerly await. Pakistan, one of the biggest receivers of Saudi Arabia’s Hajj quotas, has a sizable population of people who are ready to take part in the yearly pilgrimage, many of whom have been waiting years for the chance.
Pakistan will send 179,210 pilgrims for the Hajj under the new government program, split between those who use the official government program and those who use private tour companies. According to Minister Hussain, the price of the Hajj in 2025 would vary based on the package, from Rs1,075,000 to Rs1,175,000. The required sacrifice rites come with an extra fee of Rs55,000.
The government has set up a three-phase installment plan to make the procedure easier to handle. When submitting an application, a Rs200,000 first installment is needed. Pilgrims must deposit a second installment of Rs400,000 within ten days of the voting results if they are chosen through the official voting process. The due date for the remaining amount is February 10, 2025. “If your name appears in the lucky draw after submitting Rs200,000 at the time of the application, you will submit Rs400,000 before paying the remaining amount between February 1-10,” Minister Hussain clarified.
Due to the rules, if a withdrawal occurs, Rs 50,000 will be subtracted from the first installment, and if the third installment is not paid on time, Rs 200,000 will be subtracted. By reducing the requirement for important, upfront contributions, this phased payment strategy aims to increase access to the Hajj.
More people can make the journey for the first time thanks to the Hajj policy, which also gives priority to first-time pilgrims during the voting process. Also, the minister announced a new limitation on travel that will prevent children under the age of 12 from participating.
The government will provide two packages to suit different tastes: a longer stay of 38–42 days and a shorter alternative of 20–25 days. This adaptability gives future pilgrims choices that fit their budgets and schedules.
The Pakistani government’s approval early this month of the Hajj Policy 2025 is a major step in making the journey more affordable for its people. The effort attempts to meet the goals of many Muslims in Pakistan to fulfill this religious obligation by introducing financing choices and providing an important Hajj budget.
