Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony Talha Mahmood made a significant announcement at a news conference in Islamabad. According to him, the coalition government’s initiatives have drastically decreased the price of the Hajj from $5,000 to $3,900.
Mahmood emphasized that by doing this, pilgrims will be able to save over four billion rupees, and any leftover money would be returned.
Reduction in Hajj Costs
Mahmood continued by stating that the $3,900 package includes all travel, lodging, and meal costs within Saudi Arabia. According to Radio Pakistan, he assured that the program also covers the pilgrims’ lodging expenses in Mina and Arafat.
Mahmood responded to a question by saying that 88% of Pakistani pilgrims had accommodations close to Markaziya in Madina, ensuring their comfort and convenience.
Mahmood proudly disclosed that he personally gave over Rs. 1.1 million to the Ministry of Religious Affairs’ account for pilgrimage expenses, underscoring the significance of openness during the pilgrimage season.
He pledged to make additional contributions if necessary and made it clear that no one would get public funding for personal pilgrimage expenses.
Mahmood made it clear that the Hajj Moavineen’s (volunteers) role is to assist the pilgrims, not to perform pilgrimage themselves.
Mahmood also completely dismissed any thoughts that the Pakistani president Arif Alvi and his family will receive a free Hajj.
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