Hajj 2024 applications open today for Pakistanis

ISLAMABAD – The government-designated banks are accepting applications for the Hajj for 2024 starting from Monday (today).

A spokesperson from the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony said in a statement that this procedure will run until the 12^th of December.

You can apply for Hajj with a passport valid until December 16, 2024. Additionally, the applicants have the option to process the Hajj application using a passport application token. Approximately around 180,000 Pakistanis are set to go on the holy journey of Hajj next year.  

For this year, the government has reduced Hajj expenses by Rs. 100, 000. Additionally, for the first time in Pakistan’s history, the caretaker government has introduced a shorter Hajj package, lasting a maximum of 25 days and costing approximately more than the regular Hajj package.

The short Hajj package will be priced at Rs.1140, 000 for those from the southern region (Bhakkar, Bahawalnagar, Bahawalpur, Dera Ghazi Khan, Jhang, Layyah, Lodhran) and Rs.1,150, 000 for those from northern parts (Mansehra, Balakot, Kiwai, Naran, Kaghan, Batakundi, Jalkhad, Tatta Pani, Chilas, Gilgit, Karimabad, and Passu).

The long Hajj package, which includes an 8-day stay in Medinah, will have a total duration of up to 42 days. Travelers from southern areas (Karachi, Quetta, and Sukkur) will pay Rs. 1,065,000, while those from the northern regions will pay Rs.1, 075,000 for the Hajj.

This year’s Hajj pilgrimage is making history by allowing women to participate without the traditional need for a male companion (Mehram).

Approximately, 89, 605 Pakistanis are set to perform Hajj under the government scheme. In case the number of applications exceeds the allotted slots, a balloting process will be conducted to determine the final list of pilgrims. This ensures a fair and transparent selection process for the sacred journey.

Hajj is the annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca, a religious obligation that Muslims must undertake at least once in their lifetime, provided they are physically and financially able. It involves specific rituals, symbolizing unity and equality among Muslims, and takes place during the Islamic month of Dhu al-Hijah.