Govt to return Rs3.45bn to 66,377 pilgrims who performed Hajj last year

The Ministry of Religious Affairs has decided to refund Rs3.45 billion to 66,377 pilgrims who performed Hajj last year under the government scheme. The refund process will be completed by October 31, with the amounts to be transferred directly into pilgrims’ bank accounts.

Addressing a press conference on Thursday, Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousaf said the government and the ministry were committed to reducing Hajj expenses and improving arrangements each year. He said that during Hajj 2025, cost savings of around Rs3.45 billion were achieved through efficient management of accommodation, food, transport, and other services, and the same amount is now being returned to the pilgrims.

The minister detailed that 12,286 pilgrims will receive refunds of Rs12,000 each, 13,939 pilgrims will get Rs25,000 each, 8,496 pilgrims will be refunded Rs48,000, 20,302 pilgrims will get Rs75,000, 10,945 pilgrims will receive Rs90,000, and 400 pilgrims will be refunded Rs110,000 each. He added that the refund process had begun and would be completed by the end of the month.

Yousaf explained that refunds were being given to those pilgrims who could not fully avail certain facilities such as accommodation, transport, or other services in Saudi Arabia, while those who fully utilized all facilities were not eligible for reimbursement.

Announcing the Hajj 2026 packages, the minister said the 40-day Hajj package had been fixed at Rs1.15 million, while the 25-day short Hajj package would cost Rs1.2 million. All applicants under the government scheme will be required to deposit a second installment of Rs650,000.

He further announced that during Hajj 2026, each pilgrim would receive a travel bag and a SIM card from a Saudi telecom company, offering internet access and 300 to 600 call minutes. He added that the Hajj training system would also be further improved to better assist pilgrims.