ISLAMABAD: Health authorities in Pakistan have instructed commercial banks not to request COVID-19 vaccination certificates from individuals submitting applications for Haj 2024.
The National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) at the National Institute of Health (NIH) in Islamabad cited the World Health Organisation’s declaration that COVID-19 is no longer a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) and that proof of vaccination is no longer a prerequisite for international travel.
Commercial banks were reportedly demanding vaccination certificates from Haj applicants, contrary to the changed international travel guidelines. The NCOC has directed the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony to instruct banks not to insist on COVID-19 vaccination certificates during the application process.
The official mentioned that decisions regarding COVID-19 vaccination for selected individuals will be made based on directives from Saudi authorities after the balloting process.
The NCOC issued ‘Guidelines for International Travel and Haj Pilgrims,’ abolishing the mandatory requirement for a COVID-19 vaccine certificate upon arrival in Pakistan. Additionally, inbound passengers are no longer required to present a COVID-19 negative PCR report before boarding or upon arrival.
The screening for COVID-19 of passengers arriving from the UK, Gulf, and other countries has been abolished. The NCOC emphasized the implementation of these policies with immediate effect until further notice.
Pakistani Hajj Pilgrims To Receive Complimentary SIM Cards With Roaming Internet In 2024
In another significant development, Pakistani Hajj pilgrims in 2024 will receive complimentary mobile SIM cards with roaming internet packages, according to the Caretaker Minister for Religious Affairs and Inter-faith Harmony, Aneeq Ahmed.
He also announced a substantial reduction of approximately Rs100,000 in the overall cost of the Hajj pilgrimage and pledged an additional Rs50,000 reduction, with the refunded amount directly credited to the accounts of the pilgrims.
To enhance the experience for female pilgrims, Minister Aneeq Ahmed disclosed that special abayas adorned with the Pakistani flag on the backside would be provided. Additionally, every pilgrim will receive a 13kg suitcase as part of the facilitation efforts.
Minister Aneeq Ahmed also unveiled a new mobile application designed to assist Hajj pilgrims, providing navigation support, constant communication with officials, and digital training programs.
