The Government of Pakistan has initiated the refund process for pilgrims who performed Haj this year under the regular government scheme. According to the Minister for Religious Affairs, Sardar Muhammad Yousuf, a total of Rs. 3.45 billion is being reimbursed to eligible pilgrims, marking one of the largest refund distributions in recent years.
The refund exercise will be completed by October 31, covering nearly 75% of the total 84,960 pilgrims, which equals around 66,000 individuals. These pilgrims will receive reimbursements ranging between Rs. 12,000 and Rs. 110,000, depending on their respective categories. However, the remaining 25% of pilgrims—approximately 21,900 people—who were provided with upgraded accommodation and additional facilities, will not qualify for refunds.
Refund Distribution and Accommodation Improvements
A detailed breakdown issued by the Ministry of Religious Affairs revealed that 14% of pilgrims will receive Rs. 12,000 each, 16% will get Rs. 25,000, 10% Rs. 75,000, 12% Rs. 90,000, and 408 pilgrims are entitled to Rs. 110,000 each. The refund initiative comes as part of the government’s efforts to enhance transparency and ensure that unutilized funds are returned to the pilgrims.
Minister Yousuf emphasized that this year’s Haj arrangements represented a major improvement in facilities. For the first time, pilgrims were accommodated in air-conditioned tents at Mina, equipped with gypsum walls and folding mattresses to improve comfort during their stay. He also noted that the Haj quota under the government scheme had been increased by 30,000, ensuring that more citizens could participate in the pilgrimage.
For the upcoming Haj season, the cost of the short-stay package has been fixed at Rs. 1.2 million, while the 40-day package will cost Rs. 1.15 million. Pilgrims must deposit their second installment of Rs. 650,000 between November 3 and November 15 through designated banks. Additionally, each pilgrim will receive a Saudi SIM card offering 300 to 600 free internet minutes, enhancing connectivity during their journey.
Sardar Muhammad Yousuf also extended his gratitude to Saudi Minister for Haj and Umrah Dr. Tawfiq Al-Rabiah and Saudi Ambassador Nawaf bin Saeed Al-Maliki for their cooperation and assistance in facilitating Pakistani pilgrims during Haj 2025.
