Pakistan has formally approached Saudi Arabia with a request to increase its annual Hajj quota to 230,000 pilgrims, citing the country’s expanding population and rising demand for the sacred journey. The move aims to provide greater access to one of Islam’s most important religious obligations for Pakistani citizens.
The request was confirmed by Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, Sardar Muhammad Yousaf, while speaking to the media on Wednesday. He stated that Pakistan expects a positive response, especially in light of recent quota increases granted to several other Muslim countries.
Currently, Pakistan’s Hajj quota stands lower than what officials believe is proportional to its population size. Each year, thousands of aspiring pilgrims are unable to perform Hajj due to limited slots, despite completing all necessary preparations. An increased quota would ease this pressure and allow more Pakistanis to fulfill their religious duty.
The minister expressed optimism that Saudi authorities would consider Pakistan’s case favorably. He noted that demographic growth and sustained interest in Hajj make a strong argument for expanding the allocation, particularly as Saudi Arabia continues to enhance its infrastructure and capacity for pilgrims.
Alongside the quota request, Sardar Muhammad Yousaf also highlighted progress under the ‘Road to Makkah’ initiative. Under this project, Pakistani pilgrims are able to complete immigration procedures in their home country, significantly reducing waiting times upon arrival in Saudi Arabia.
According to the minister, more than 38,000 pilgrims will travel from Islamabad under the Road to Makkah facility this year. This streamlined process has been widely appreciated by pilgrims for improving comfort and efficiency during the journey.
The government is also working to expand the initiative to other major cities. While the facility currently operates in Islamabad and Karachi, efforts are underway to extend it to Lahore. If approved, this expansion would benefit a much larger number of pilgrims from central Punjab.
Officials believe that improvements in facilitation, combined with a higher Hajj quota, would greatly enhance Pakistan’s overall pilgrimage management system. It would also reduce logistical strain and ensure a smoother experience for pilgrims of all age groups.
As preparations for upcoming Hajj seasons continue, Pakistan’s request reflects a broader effort to improve religious services and respond to public demand. The final decision now rests with Saudi authorities, whose approval could bring significant relief to thousands of hopeful pilgrims across the country.
