The federal government has begun refunding Rs3.5 billion to pilgrims who performed Hajj 2025 under the regular government scheme, according to the Ministry of Religious Affairs.
Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousuf announced that nearly 75% of the pilgrims — more than 66,000 out of 84,960 — are eligible for refunds ranging between Rs12,000 and Rs110,000, depending on their respective Hajj packages.
Refunds Based on Accommodation Categories
Minister Yousuf confirmed that the refund process is fully transparent and is being conducted nationwide through direct bank transfers.
“The government has started making refunds and the process will be completed by October 31,” the minister stated.
He added that 25% of pilgrims (21,895) who received premium accommodation would not be eligible for refunds, as they were provided the “best possible facilities” during their pilgrimage.
According to ministry data, refunds have been categorized as follows:
| Category | No. of Pilgrims | Refund Amount (Rs) |
|---|---|---|
| 14% | 12,286 | 12,000 |
| 16% | 13,939 | 25,000 |
| 10% | 8,496 | 75,000 |
| 12% | 10,945 | 90,000 |
| 0.5% | 408 | 110,000 |
The total refund pool amounts to Rs3.45 billion, reflecting savings achieved through efficient management of the 2025 Hajj operations.
Improved Facilities for Pilgrims
For the first time, Pakistani pilgrims were provided with air-conditioned accommodation at Mina, featuring gypsum walls and folding mattresses, offering greater comfort compared to previous years.
The minister emphasized that this year’s Hajj quota under the government’s regular scheme was increased by 30,000 pilgrims, and all bookings were successfully completed.
Bookings under the private Hajj scheme are also nearing completion, according to the ministry.
Details for Upcoming Hajj Bookings
The government has announced that for Hajj 2026, the short-stay package will cost Rs1.2 million, while the 40-day package will be priced at Rs1.15 million.
Pilgrims will be required to submit their second instalment of Rs650,000 through nominated banks between November 3 and November 15, 2025.
Each intending pilgrim will also receive a Saudi SIM card preloaded with 300 to 600 free internet minutes, along with a complimentary travel kit.
Acknowledgment of Saudi Cooperation
Minister Yousuf extended gratitude to Saudi Minister for Hajj and Umrah Dr. Tawfiq Al-Rabiah and the Saudi Ambassador to Pakistan Nawaf Bin Saeed Al Maliki for their continued support in facilitating Pakistani pilgrims during Hajj 2025.
“The cooperation of the Saudi authorities has been exemplary, ensuring comfort, safety, and spiritual fulfilment for all Pakistani pilgrims,” Yousuf said.
The refund initiative marks one of the largest government reimbursements in Pakistan’s Hajj management history, symbolizing improved transparency and administrative efficiency.
