Sardar Yousaf shares Hajj 2025 private scheme update

Federal Minister for Religious Affairs, Sardar Muhammad Yousaf, has confirmed that only 25,698 pilgrims will be able to perform Hajj this year under the private scheme due to delays and mismanagement by private operators.

Addressing a press conference in Islamabad alongside the Secretary of the Ministry of Religious Affairs, the minister stated that under Pakistan’s Hajj policy, the quota is equally divided between the government and private sectors—50% each—out of the total of 179,210 pilgrims allocated for 2025.

He said that the government quota was fully utilized on time, with all payments made and approvals secured in line with the Saudi Arabian deadlines. However, private operators failed to comply with the required procedures and deadlines, despite repeated instructions and warnings.

Sardar Yousaf highlighted that certain NGOs and private companies, organized under clusters, were unable to meet the Saudi conditions, particularly the requirement of a minimum of 2,000 pilgrims per company for 2025, up from the previous 500. Despite forming 904 companies and creating 41 clusters under the oversight of HOPE (the association of private tour operators), they failed to make timely payments and bookings.

He revealed that by the February 14 deadline, only 3,600 pilgrims had submitted their payments. Even after granting an extension and an additional 48 hours, the total number only rose to about 13,600. The minister personally visited Saudi Arabia to request an extension, but the Saudi Ministry of Hajj declined, citing uniform policies for all Muslim countries.

Following intervention by the Prime Minister and the Foreign Minister, Saudi Arabia granted an additional quota of 10,000 for Pakistan, which was matched for other countries as well. This brought the total number of pilgrims allowed under the private scheme to 25,698.

The minister also clarified that Saudi authorities had signed agreements with HOPE representatives well in advance, with full knowledge of the rules and deadlines. He dismissed claims of unawareness by some operators, stating that the Ministry had fulfilled its responsibility by issuing frequent public notices urging verification before booking.

Sardar Yousaf confirmed that negligence on the part of certain private operators led to this situation. A committee has been formed by the Prime Minister to investigate, and appropriate action will be taken based on its findings.

Responding to a query regarding funds being sent to incorrect accounts, the Secretary of Religious Affairs explained that although 50 million riyals were sent to a disputed account, the amount was returned by January. However, 700 million riyals were required to complete the booking process.

In conclusion, the minister categorically stated that no further Hajj quota will be issued by Saudi Arabia, and those who missed out under the private scheme will no longer be accommodated. Hajj flights are expected to conclude by May 30, and all arrangements will be finalized accordingly.