In a welcome development for aspiring Hajj pilgrims, the Ministry of Religious Affairs has officially allowed bookings for private Hajj organizing companies and their subsidiaries, reported 24newsHd TV channel Friday.
According to a spokesperson, the booking period for the private Hajj scheme will run from January 10 to January 31, 2025.
The Ministry has listed various Hajj packages under the private scheme on its official website, with prices ranging from Rs. 11 lakh to Rs. 21.5 lakh. Pilgrims are urged to carefully review these packages to ensure clarity regarding the facilities being offered.
Under the Facility Provision Agreement (SPA), private Hajj organizers are required to book pilgrims in compliance with set guidelines. For packages exceeding Rs. 3 million, organizers must seek approval from the Hajj Policy Formulation Committee, ensuring transparency and adherence to standards.
Additionally, the Ministry will share data of sellers and buyers of Hajj packages priced above Rs. 3 million with the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) and other relevant agencies. Organizers will be required to provide detailed information about such packages at the time of approval.
To avoid fraud, the Ministry has advised private Hajj pilgrims to confirm their bookings through the official website or the “Pak Hajj” mobile app. Pilgrims are also instructed to transact money solely through the company's bank accounts and ensure a mandatory facility agreement is obtained.
The Ministry of Religious Affairs emphasized the importance of understanding all package details before finalizing bookings, ensuring that pilgrims receive the promised services for a seamless Hajj experience.