Daily Times

The Director-General of Passports has announced the establishment of special counters for Hajj pilgrims, enabling them to receive their passports within 24 hours.

According to Mustafa Jamal Qazi, the Director-General of Passports, special desks will be set up at all regional offices, including the headquarters, and this service will also be available at passport offices worldwide. He further stated that pilgrims will be given priority at these special counters, and passport delivery will be ensured within 24 hours.

In a major step towards reducing the cost of Hajj for 2025, the Ministry of Religious Affairs has secured a significant reduction in airfare for pilgrims. According to local media sources, each Haji will now pay $50 less for their flight compared to last year. In 2024, the cost per Haji was set at $850, a figure which has now been reduced.

The ministry has negotiated a new deal with Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), fixing the cost of each ticket at $800 for 35,000 pilgrims.

This deal is part of a larger effort to make Hajj more affordable for Pakistani citizens. Additionally, Saudi Airlines will also transport 35,000 pilgrims to the holy sites.

The decision is seen as a step in the right direction for making Hajj more accessible, particularly given the rising costs of travel and accommodation in recent years. The reduction in airfare is expected to ease the financial burden on pilgrims, many of whom have struggled with the increasing costs of performing the pilgrimage.

The process for submitting applications for the 2025 Government Hajj Scheme officially commenced today, with the window for applications running until December 3.

The Ministry of Religious Affairs announced that applications can be submitted at 15 nominated banks across the country.

Under the scheme, a total of 89,605 quotas have been allocated to Pakistani pilgrims for the upcoming Hajj season. Applicants are required to deposit Rs200,000 along with their initial application.

Following the draw on December 6, the second installment of the Hajj fees will be collected. The remaining balance must be paid between February 1st and 10th, 2025.

The Government Hajj Scheme includes a comprehensive package covering air tickets, food, accommodation, training, and necessary vaccinations for pilgrims.