Minister Announces Significant Drop in Hajj Costs from $5,000 to $3,900

Newstoday : The Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, Talha Mahmood, held a press conference in Islamabad where he announced a significant reduction in the cost of Hajj from $5,000 to $3,900, thanks to the policies implemented by the coalition government. This reduction would enable pilgrims to save over four billion rupees, with any remaining amount refunded. Mahmood explained that the $3,900 package includes airfare, transportation within Saudi Arabia, accommodation, and food expenses, covering the pilgrims' stay at Mina and Arafat. He also confirmed that eighty percent of Pakistani pilgrims had been accommodated near Markaziya in Madina for their comfort and convenience.

In terms of transparency, Mahmood personally contributed over Rs. 1.1 million to the Ministry of Religious Affairs’ account for Hajj expenses and expressed his willingness to contribute more if needed. He made it clear that state funds would not be utilized for anyone's personal Hajj expenses. Mahmood clarified that the Hajj Moavineen's purpose is to serve the pilgrims and not to perform Hajj themselves. Finally, he dismissed any rumors of providing a free Hajj for President of Pakistan Arif Alvi and his family.