The federal cabinet has given the green light for the Hajj policy for next year. This decision was made through a circulation summary on Thursday. Now, here’s the big question: how much is it going to cost? Well, sources are saying the Hajj package could cost around Rs 10.75 lakh to Rs 11.75 lakh, so if you’re planning to go, it’s good to start saving now.
Next year, about 179,000 people from Pakistan will be heading to Saudi Arabia for this sacred journey. The government and private operators are both getting an equal share, with a quota of 89,605 pilgrims each. It’s also good news for the labor sector; 1,000 spots have been set aside for them, and for those registered under EOBI, about 300 people will be able to perform Hajj.
For those planning, there are two options: the longer Hajj will last between 38 to 42 days, and the shorter one will be around 20 to 25 days. But keep in mind, that kids under 12 won’t be allowed to make the trip next year, so families with younger kids will need to make other plans.
The Road to Makkah project is still going strong. It’s going to make the whole airport process a lot smoother for people flying out from Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi. And for women who want to perform Hajj without a mahram, they’ll be able to do so under the guidelines set by the Islamic Ideological Council.
The 2025 Hajj policy is set, and it’s just a matter of getting ready for the spiritual journey ahead.