The Federal Government has unveiled the Hajj Policy 2025, introducing updated guidelines and enhanced support to ensure a smooth pilgrimage for Pakistani citizens. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the policy outlines a quota of 179,210 pilgrims, equally divided between government and private operators. Notably, children under 12 are not permitted for this year’s Hajj, and a compcomputerizedlot system will select pilgrims under the government scheme.
Special provisions include 1,000 seats for hardship cases and 300 seats for low-income workers registered with the Workers Welfare Fund and EOBI. The ‘Road to Makkah’ initiative will streamline immigration and travel for pilgrims from Islamabad and Karachi.
The policy introduces the role of Nazim, with one appointed for every 100 pilgrims to oversee services and ensure smooth operations. Additionally, compensation for deceased or injured pilgrims has been raised to one to two million rupees. A new Hajj management app has been developed, offering essential information and training, emphasising and preparation. First-time pilgrims will receive priority in the ballot, with the government’s focus on delivering quality services.
