At a recent session of the National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Religious Affairs, the Secretary of Religious Affairs outlined this year’s Hajj expenses under the government scheme, as reported by Express News. Chaired by Committee Chairman Aamir Dogar, the discussion aimed to enhance Hajj arrangements, involving oversight of private Hajj companies.
The Secretary states that efforts are underway to maintain Hajj costs below Rs1.1 million. The government scheme includes a quota for 5,000 pilgrims, anticipating additional applications soon. Notably, each mattress in Mina, Mecca, will bear a unique number to assist pilgrims. Last year, 764 complaints were lodged against 218 private Hajj firms.
Private Hajj operators with over two decades of experience shared insights during the meeting. They advocated for extended contracts with Saudi authorities to reduce expenses. Although Saudi officials recommended raising each operator’s quota to 3,000 pilgrims, the ministry has temporarily shelved this suggestion, considering a future increase of 2,500 and 3,000.
Plans are in place to potentially eliminate the quota system in upcoming years, aligning with Saudi policies. The ministry emphasized its commitment to preventing the exploitation of pilgrims rather than closing businesses, highlighting issues with private operators who often transfer Hajj packages among companies at elevated prices.
Read: Pakistan to Hand Over Hajj Management to Private Operators by 2026
