67,000 Pakistani Pilgrims Miss Out on Hajj 2025 Due to Delays in Agreement Finalization and Payments
- Sara Habib
- April 16, 2025
- 8:48 am
- 40
- Current Affairs
Hajj Quota Crisis is affecting thousands of Pakistani pilgrims in 2025. More than 67,000 people may not be able to go for Hajj this year. The reason is delays in finalizing deals and payments under the private Hajj scheme.
Private Hajj Scheme Faces Trouble
This year, Pakistan received a total Hajj quota of 179,210 pilgrims from Saudi Arabia. It was divided equally—89,605 for the government scheme and 89,605 for private operators. To help more people, the Ministry allowed an extra 10,000 slots for private Hajj.
However, the demand was too high. A total of 91,000 bookings were made under the private scheme. But only 14,000 payments have been accepted so far. Because of this, 67,000 pilgrims are now in limbo.
Why Are Pilgrims at Risk?
Many people booked early and paid the full amount. But due to slow processing and quota limits, they may not be able to travel. Also, private Hajj organizers are struggling with the payment process. As a result, pilgrims who trusted them now face uncertainty.
Government Steps In
To solve the problem, the government has approached the Prime Minister. He is being asked to speak with Saudi officials and request more Hajj quota. If more slots are approved, some of the affected pilgrims might still go. But time is short, and quick action is needed.
Public Reaction and Concerns
Pilgrims are worried. Many saved money for years. They were excited to perform Hajj in 2025. Now, they feel stressed and helpless. Private operators are also under pressure to explain the situation.
This crisis shows a clear need for better planning and early action. In the future, officials must ensure smoother systems and faster processing.
What Happens Next?
Everyone is waiting for a response from Saudi Arabia. The final outcome depends on whether more slots will be given. If not, thousands of people may have to wait another year.
For official updates, visit Ministry of Religious Affairs Pakistan or Saudi Hajj Ministry.
