The Pakistani government has announced a significant reduction in Hajj airfares for 2025, providing financial relief to pilgrims. Each of the 89,605 pilgrims will now pay Rs220,000 for air travel, which is Rs14,000 less than the Rs234,000 charged last year.
This reduction of $50 per person will result in savings of Rs1.24 billion for the pilgrims.
The decrease in ticket prices is a result of negotiations between Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) and the Ministry of Religious Affairs, with PIA agreeing to lower its fares for the second consecutive year. The decision will also apply to other airlines, including Saudi Arabia.
The government has allocated travel arrangements for the pilgrims, with 40% flying with PIA, 40% with Saudi Airlines, and 20% with private Pakistani airlines.
The process for receiving applications under the government Hajj Scheme 2025 is currently open and will continue until December 3. The lottery for the official Hajj scheme is scheduled to take place on December 6.
Additionally, the government has allocated 5,000 seats for the sponsorship scheme, which allows overseas Pakistanis to contribute $4,225 for themselves or their relatives.
The Hajj packages offer two options: a long stay of 38-42 days and a short stay of 20-25 days.
