In the first six days of the government-run Hajj scheme, a total of 15,844 applications were received. Lahore had the highest number of applicants with 5,118, followed by Islamabad with 5,485 and Karachi with 3,053. To assist pilgrims, the Ministry of Religious Affairs has launched the ‘Pak Hajj’ mobile app, offering registration, guidance, and assistance during the pilgrimage. The app allows users to access features using their national ID and Hajj application numbers.
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In preparation for the upcoming season, an agreement has been made for 200,000 Pakistanis to perform Hajj. The new app is part of an effort to streamline services and provide crucial information directly to pilgrims’ smartphones, aiming to enhance their experience.
In a significant move to reduce the cost of Hajj, the Ministry has secured a $50 reduction in airfare for 2025. The cost per pilgrim has dropped from $850 to $800, thanks to a new agreement with Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) for 35,000 pilgrims. Saudi Airlines will also transport 35,000 pilgrims. This reduction is part of the government’s broader initiative to make Hajj more affordable, easing the financial burden on many who have faced rising travel and accommodation costs in recent years.
