ISLAMABAD – The federal government of Pakistan is actively working to increase the country’s Hajj quota in response to the rising demand from prospective pilgrims eager to perform the sacred journey. Officials from the Ministry of Religious Affairs have confirmed that efforts are underway to negotiate with the Saudi Arabian authorities to secure a larger quota for Pakistani pilgrims during the upcoming Hajj season.
Every year, Pakistan receives an official quota allocated by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia that determines the number of pilgrims allowed to perform Hajj from the country. Given Pakistan’s large Muslim population and the spiritual significance of Hajj, the current quota has often been considered insufficient to meet demand. The government’s move to increase the quota aims to accommodate more faithful and facilitate their journey to the holy sites.
A senior official from the Ministry of Religious Affairs explained that the quota discussions are ongoing and highlighted the importance of close coordination with Saudi authorities. “We are hopeful that through diplomatic channels, we will be able to secure additional slots for Pakistani pilgrims,” the official said, requesting anonymity.
The ministry is also preparing logistical arrangements to handle a larger number of pilgrims, including transportation, accommodation, and health services. In addition, there are plans to streamline the registration process to ensure transparency and fairness in the allocation of seats.
In recent years, the Hajj quota for Pakistan was set at approximately 179,000 pilgrims, but demand often far exceeds this number. The COVID-19 pandemic had further complicated the process, with severely reduced quotas in 2020 and 2021. Now, with international travel restrictions easing, the ministry is focused on expanding the quota while maintaining health and safety protocols.
Minister of Religious Affairs, Pir Noor-ul-Haq Qadri, has assured that the government is committed to facilitating Hajj in a manner that respects both religious obligations and public safety. He stated, “Our priority is to ensure that all eligible Pakistani citizens who wish to perform Hajj are given an opportunity, and we are working diligently to increase the quota.”
The government is also engaging with provincial administrations and relevant departments to raise awareness among potential pilgrims about the registration procedures and the documents required for the pilgrimage. Authorities have warned against fraudulent agents and illegal travel operators exploiting aspiring pilgrims, urging citizens to rely only on authorized channels.
Furthermore, the ministry has promised to enhance the services offered to pilgrims throughout the journey, including medical support, counseling, and grievance redressal mechanisms.
Religious scholars and community leaders have welcomed the government’s efforts to expand the quota, emphasizing the importance of providing equal opportunity to all eligible pilgrims regardless of socioeconomic status.
As Pakistan awaits confirmation from Saudi Arabia, the government’s proactive stance reflects its dedication to addressing the spiritual needs of millions of its citizens. The successful expansion of the Hajj quota will be a significant step in strengthening bilateral ties with the Kingdom and fulfilling the religious aspirations of Pakistani Muslims.
The Ministry of Religious Affairs has urged all potential pilgrims to stay updated through official communication channels and prepare their applications promptly once the final quota and guidelines are announced.
