In response to a lower-than-expected number of Hajj applications, the Ministry of Religious Affairs has decided to extend the deadline for application submissions and delay the Hajj lucky draw.
According to ministry officials, the deadline for submitting Hajj applications under the government scheme will likely be extended by 13 days. Originally set for December 6, the lucky draw is now scheduled for December 19.
As of now, around 55,000 applications have been received under the government Hajj scheme. The extension is intended to encourage more people to apply.
A final decision on the extended deadline and revised draw date is expected to be announced tomorrow.
Last week, the State Bank of Pakistan instructed designated banks to remain open on Saturdays and Sundays until 2:30 p.m. to facilitate Hajj application submissions.
A spokesperson from the Ministry of Religious Affairs explained that this move was made at the ministry’s request to ensure the smooth processing of applications before the December 3 deadline.
Earlier in November, the government announced a significant reduction in Hajj airfares for 2025, offering financial relief to pilgrims. Under the new pricing, each of the 89,605 pilgrims will pay Rs220,000 for air travel, a Rs14,000 reduction from the Rs234,000 charged last year.
This reduction of $50 per person will result in a total saving of Rs1.24 billion for pilgrims. The reduced fares are the result of negotiations between Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) and the Ministry of Religious Affairs, with PIA agreeing to lower its prices for the second consecutive year.
The fare reduction will apply to other airlines, including Saudi Airlines. After finalizing the deal with PIA, the ministry is also expected to complete agreements with other private Pakistani airlines and Saudi national airlines later this week.
The travel arrangement distribution will see 40% of pilgrims traveling with PIA, another 40% with Saudi Airlines, and the remaining 20% with private Pakistani airlines.
