The Ministry of Religious Affairs has once again extended the deadline for Hajj applications under the government scheme, marking the third extension due to a lukewarm response.
The first session of training will run from January 18 to February 26, while the second session will take place after Ramadan. This is essential to ensure a smooth and successful Hajj pilgrimage.
For Hajj 2025, Saudi Arabia has allocated a total of 179,210 pilgrim quotas to Pakistan, with 89,605 slots available for both the government and private schemes.
Despite initial deadlines set for December 3, which were later extended to December 10 and then December 17, the government is still short by 5,000 applicants. As a result, the Ministry has decided to accept additional applications on a first-come, first-served basis.
Omar Butt, spokesperson for the Ministry of Religious Affairs, explained that financial constraints are a key factor preventing the government from filling its quota.
He also said that people in remote areas face difficulties submitting applications, a challenge shared by other countries such as India and Bangladesh. Regarding the distinction between private tour operators and the government scheme, Butt clarified that all parties are required to adhere to the guidelines set by the Saudi government.
