Daily Times

The Ministry of Religious Affairs has successfully reduced the Hajj expenses for Pakistani pilgrims, announcing a fixed airfare of $800 per person with Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) for the upcoming pilgrimage.

This represents a notable reduction from last year’s rate, where the Ministry paid $850 per pilgrim. A quota of 35,000 pilgrims has been allocated to PIA, making travel more affordable for Pakistanis embarking on this sacred journey.

This initiative is seen as a significant effort by the Ministry to make Hajj more accessible and cost-effective for Pakistani Muslims.

In another move aimed at supporting low-income and middle-class citizens planning to perform Hajj, the government has introduced a new relief measure.

A proposal allowing pilgrims to pay for Hajj expenses in three installments rather than a lump sum has been submitted to the federal cabinet for approval.

According to sources, this installment plan is part of the government’s broader Hajj policy, which is expected to be approved by the federal cabinet. Under this proposal, pilgrims would be able to pay Rs1.1 million in three installments. Initially, applicants would deposit Rs200,000 to register. If selected in the lucky draw, they would then pay an additional Rs400,000, with the remaining balance to be settled before departure.