Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Chaudhry Salik Hussain announced on Tuesday that Pakistani pilgrims who performed Hajj last year will receive refunds ranging from Rs20,000 to Rs100,000. The minister made the announcement at a press conference alongside the Additional Secretary for Religious Affairs.

Hussain stated that the government is committed to providing the best possible facilities for Hajj pilgrims and that this year’s Hajj costs have not been increased. He emphasized that Pakistan offers the world’s most affordable Hajj package, considering the current exchange rate of the dollar.

The Additional Secretary provided details of the refunds, explaining that the amount varies depending on individual circumstances. While a small percentage (3%) of pilgrims will receive Rs140,000 rupees, a larger portion (23%) will receive Rs75,000. A further Rs3,000 pilgrims will receive Rs50,000 rupees. The refunds, the Additional Secretary confirmed, will begin appearing in pilgrims’ accounts by Friday.

The minister further clarified that this year’s Hajj package costs between Rs1,050,000 and Rs1,175,000, a reduction of Rs25,000 per person compared to last year’s initial announcement. He added that the government quota for Hajj is now full and no further applications will be accepted, although hardship quota facilities remain available. Hussain also praised the cooperation received from Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Hajj and Umrah Dr. Tawfiq Al-Rabiah.