The Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony has issued a crucial advisory for prospective pilgrims gearing up for the Hajj pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia. Emphasizing the importance of health and safety measures, the ministry urges intending pilgrims to complete their vaccinations at least five days before their scheduled departure.
According to the ministry’s official announcement on Facebook, intending pilgrims are instructed to visit designated Haji camps within the specified timeframe, from 9 am to 5 pm, five days prior to their flight. At these camps, they will receive vaccinations against meningitis, seasonal influenza, and polio, as well as obtain a yellow card, all of which are mandatory prerequisites for the journey.
Hajj, a profound religious obligation for financially and physically capable Muslims, is slated to take place from June 14 to June 19 this year. The ministry’s advisory underscores the significance of adhering to the vaccination timeline to ensure the health and well-being of all pilgrims participating in this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Additionally, each pilgrim will be furnished with a comprehensive package comprising a large travel bag, a compact hand-carry bag, a dedicated shoe bag, an Ihram belt for men, and a scarf for women, facilitating their journey and accommodation needs.
Saudi Arabia’s decision last year to restore Pakistan’s pre-pandemic Hajj quota of 179,210 pilgrims, along with the removal of the upper age limit of 65 years, has paved the way for a broader participation in the pilgrimage. In 2023, over 81,000 pilgrims availed the government scheme for Hajj, while others chose private tour operators for their pilgrimage arrangements.
The recent draw results for Hajj 2024, announced in December 2023, revealed that more than 63,000 applicants were selected to embark on the sacred journey under the government scheme, highlighting the continued significance and demand for this spiritual endeavor.
