Pakistan has begun refunding PKR3.5 billion to Hajj 2025 pilgrims, marking one of the largest reimbursements in the country’s pilgrimage management history, Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousaf announced on Thursday.
The refunds are being issued to those who had deposited dues under the government Hajj scheme but were unsuccessful in the balloting, making them ineligible for this year’s pilgrimage. Besides, pilgrims who performed Hajj this year will also receive refunds from savings generated after the completion of the pilgrimage, as some expenses were covered at a lower cost than originally projected.
Speaking at a press conference in Islamabad, he said the refund process started today and will be completed by October 31.
Yousaf said the reimbursements are being processed through designated banks, reflecting the government’s “transparency, efficiency, and commitment to the welfare of pilgrims.”
The minister highlighted several improvements made during Hajj 2025, including the introduction of air-conditioned camps in Mina for the first time, along with folding mattresses and chip-sum walls to enhance pilgrims’ comfort.
He expressed gratitude to Saudi authorities for their “full cooperation” in ensuring smooth arrangements.
Refund details
Yousaf revealed that 66,370 pilgrims have already received a sizeable amount, with the remaining refunds to be disbursed by the end of October. The refund amounts vary based on the accommodation category and services availed:
- 14% (12,286 pilgrims) will receive PKR12,000 each
- 16% (around 13,000 pilgrims) will receive PKR25,000 each
- 23% of pilgrims will receive PKR75,000 each
- 12% of pilgrims will receive PKR90,000 each
- 408 pilgrims will receive PKR110,000 each
However, the minister clarified that pilgrims who opted for premium accommodation or additional facilities would not be eligible for refunds.
Preparations for Hajj 2026
Turning to the future, Yousaf said preparations for Hajj 2026 are already underway. Acting under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s directives, the cabinet approved the Hajj policy on time, allowing early completion of logistical arrangements.
He said the Naazim supervision system, introduced last year, would continue with improvements - each Naazim overseeing around 150 pilgrims to ensure smoother coordination and guidance.
All government-sponsored pilgrims will again receive:
- A trolley bag and hand-carry (plus a scarf for women)
- A Saudi SIM card with 300-600 minutes of talk time and mobile data for communication with families.
Packages and booking
Yousaf confirmed that bookings under the government Hajj scheme have been completed, while allocations for private operators are nearing finalization.
The long Hajj package (40 days) is priced at PKR1.14 million, while the short package (25 days) costs PKR1.2 million, with a second installment of PKR650,000 required for all participants.
Concluding the briefing, the minister reaffirmed the government’s dedication to ensuring a dignified and seamless experience for all pilgrims. “It is our sacred duty to make sure every guest of Allah performs Hajj with ease, peace, and proper care,” Yousaf said.
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