In an eagerly awaited announcement, the private Haj organizers in Pakistan are gearing up to commence bookings for the spiritual journey of a lifetime – the Hajj 2024. Led by the esteemed PM’s aide on Religious Affairs, Hafiz Muhammad Tahir Mahmood Ashrafi, this revelation made during a momentous press conference on Thursday, alongside the esteemed office bearers of the Hajj Organizers Association of Pakistan (HOAP).
From Friday onwards, both local and international pilgrims will have the golden chance to secure their slots for this revered pilgrimage, with the window for bookings open until February 25. And that’s not all – there’s a glimmer of hope for an extension, with Ashrafi hinting at the potential lengthening of the application deadline by an additional month, courtesy of the private Hajj organizers’ platform.
With a quota of 89,604 pilgrims, including a substantial 50 percent allocation of 44,802 pilgrims for the Sponsorship Hajj Scheme, the stage set for a remarkable journey of faith and devotion. Ashrafi, in his impassioned address, emphasized the importance of facilitating Pakistani overseas pilgrims in seamlessly remitting their funds through local financial institutions, proposing the utilization of International Bank Account Numbers (IBAN) for transfers into private Hajj organizers’ accounts in Saudi Arabia.
Acknowledging the need for assistance, a dedicated helpline has established by the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony in collaboration with HOAP, ensuring round-the-clock support for pilgrims. Gratitude expressed towards both the Pakistani and Saudi Arabian governments for their forward-thinking preparations, ensuring state-of-the-art facilities for the pilgrims’ comfort and convenience.
In a strategic shift, each Haj organizer will now oversee a smaller group of 500 pilgrims, a departure from the previous norm of 2,000, ensuring a more personalized and attentive experience. This approach safeguards employment opportunities for private Haj organizers, highlighting a harmonious collaboration between the government and private sector.
Furthermore, HOAP has introduced a robust self-accountability mechanism within private Haj organizers, promising swift resolution of grievances and stringent penalties for any misconduct, thereby prioritizing pilgrim welfare above all else.
Meanwhile, HOAP Chairman Jamal Khan Tarakai unveiled plans for a comprehensive training program tailored for pilgrims nationwide. This initiative aims to equip intending pilgrims with the knowledge and skills necessary to perform their religious rites with ease and comfort upon reaching the Kingdom, fostering a spiritually enriching experience for all.
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