Record increase in Hajj applications after installment-based payment option introduced

The government’s decision to allow installment-based payment for Hajj expenses has resulted in a record surge in the number of applications submitted in the first two days, reported 24NewsHD TV channel Wednesday.

A total of 4,774 applications were received under the government’s Hajj scheme, compared to just 1,300 applications submitted in the same period last year.

The Ministry of Religious Affairs' initiative to make Hajj more accessible by enabling payments in installments has been widely appreciated. Last year, 13,000 applications were received in the first ten days, while this year’s two-day tally suggests significantly higher participation. Of the applications submitted so far, 4,734 fall under the regular government Hajj scheme, with an additional 40 applications under the sponsorship scheme.

Applicants under the regular government scheme are required to deposit PKR 200,000 along with their application. If selected in the draw, the remaining amount must be paid by February 10. Meanwhile, the sponsorship scheme operates on a first-come, first-served basis, requiring full payment in US dollars.

The deadline for submitting Hajj applications is December 3, with a draw scheduled for December 6 if the number of applications exceeds the allocated quota. Last year, due to low participation, the government extended the application deadline by ten days. This year, the installment option has been credited for the sharp rise in early submissions, signaling an increased interest in the Hajj pilgrimage.