In a major boost for Pakistani pilgrims, Saudi Arabia has increased the Hajj quota for Pakistan by 10,000 for 2025. This decision came after a request made during a meeting between Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar and Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud.
Pakistani officials say the increase in the quota reflects the strong ties between the two countries and the ongoing support of the Saudi government for the people of Pakistan.
It was also stated that thousands of Pakistani applicants were on the waiting list, and this additional quota would help ease the pressure on applicants for this year’s Hajj.
Earlier this week, Pakistan began the second phase of mandatory training for Hajj pilgrims, following the completion of the first phase earlier this year. Federal Minister for Religious Affairs, Anwar ul Haq Yusuf, urged the pilgrims to respect Saudi laws, emphasizing that they will be ambassadors of Pakistan.
Yusuf also praised the Saudi government for its excellent arrangements for the pilgrims and assured that no Pakistani pilgrim would face any trouble. Additionally, he announced that the mandatory vaccination for Hajj pilgrims would be completed by April 20.
