Hajj 2024 balloting to be held on Thursday

On Wednesday in Karachi, Religious Minister Aneeq Ahmed announced that the Hajj balloting is scheduled for December 28 at 6 pm.

According to the Minister of Religious Affairs, the regular Hajj scheme received a remarkable 66,000 applications. He emphasized that overseas Pakistanis opting for the sponsorship Hajj scheme would receive high-quality facilities at a reduced cost, and transactions in dollars would contribute to the state’s benefit.

The draw to determine successful applicants will take place on Thursday, December 28. Results of the Hajj 2024 draw can be checked on the ministry’s website. The annual Islamic pilgrimage, Hajj, mandates every financially and physically capable Muslim adult to undertake a journey to the holy sites in Makkah at least once in their lifetime.

The ministry’s statement shared on the social media platform X mentioned, “A draw for the regular Hajj scheme will be held on Dec. 28.”

As of Friday prayers, the banks had received over 66,000 Hajj applications under the regular scheme, surpassing the required quota, as stated by the ministry.

Pakistan Launches Hajj Assistance App: A Milestone In Digital Transformation For Pilgrims

Meanwhile, Pakistan has introduced a mobile application aimed at assisting prospective Hajj pilgrims, aligning with the government’s initiative to digitize Hajj operations.

Caretaker Information Technology and Telecommunications Minister Umar Saif, speaking at the launch ceremony, hailed the application’s introduction as a significant step in the process of digitization.

Developed by the National Information Technology Board, the app enables pilgrims to register using a one-time password (OTP) received via SMS. Upon registration, they receive a unique ID, comprising their Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC) and the application number, and are required to input and update their information.

The application offers features such as checking the status of Hajj applications, accessing Hajj training schedules, viewing flight details, and obtaining information about accommodation facilities, including building and room details. Additionally, it provides details about the Maktab (camp) location.