ISLAMABAD – Despite three extensions to the official Hajj application deadline, there were still 7,000 fewer applications than expected.
Reports indicate that by the end of the final extension, 82,000 applications had been submitted, and the Ministry of Religious Affairs declared all applicants successful.
The ministry is now exploring ways to fill the remaining 7,000 slots. Options being considered include reopening the application process or transferring the remaining quota to private Hajj operators.
Pakistan has been allocated a total Hajj quota of 179,210 pilgrims this year, with half of this allocated to government and private schemes. Federal Minister Chaudhry Salik mentioned that the expected cost for the government Hajj scheme would range between Rs1,075,000 and Rs1,175,000.
