Good News: Hajj and Umrah Cost Likely to Reduce

Federal Minister for Religious Affairs, Sardar Muhammad Yousaf, has praised the creation of a $40 million fund by Saudi travel and hospitality companies. The fund, aimed at supporting Pakistani Hajj and Umrah pilgrims, is expected to significantly lower travel expenses.

Pilgrimage costs could decrease by up to Rs50,000

Speaking at a recent ceremony, the minister stated that this initiative may cut individual pilgrimage costs by up to Rs50,000, offering essential financial relief to thousands of pilgrims from Pakistan. The total amount, approximately Rs15 billion, will help improve services and affordability for Hajj and Umrah.

New Prayer Calendar Launch in Islamabad

The minister also announced the upcoming launch of a new prayer calendar (Nizam-e-Salat) in Islamabad, aimed at encouraging religious unity and discipline in prayer timings.

Group Travel for Pilgrims to Iran, Iraq & Syria

In addition, Sardar Yousaf shared that Pakistani pilgrims heading to Iran, Iraq, and Syria will now travel in organized groups, following the Hajj and Umrah travel model, for better coordination and service delivery.

Commitment to Religious Harmony

During a separate meeting with the Shia Ulema Council, both parties discussed mutual efforts to promote peace and sectarian harmony across Pakistan.

Fresh Inquiry into Hajj Mishap Ordered

Addressing media reports, Sardar Yousaf revealed that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has rejected the first investigation into the case involving 63,000 pilgrims who missed Hajj. A new committee has been formed to conduct a fresh and transparent inquiry.