Saudi Arabia increases Pakistan’s Hajj quota by 5,000 for 2019

ISLAMABAD: Saudi Arabia has increased quota of Pakistani pilgrims for next year’s Hajj by 5,000.

According to a spokesperson of Ministry of Religious Affairs, an agreement has been signed in this regard by Minister of Religious Affairs Pir Noor ul Haq Qadri and his Saudi Arabian counterpart.

Under the arrangement, more than 184, 000 pilgrims will perform Hajj from Pakistan next year.

It has also been decided to include Pakistani pilgrims in ‘Road to Makkah’ project in phases. Initially, 35, 000 pilgrims of Sindh will benefit from this scheme.

Read More: New Hajj Policy to be finalised in three months: NA told

The process of verification and immigration of the pilgrims will be conducted at Karachi airport. According to the agreement, Pakistani pilgrims will be given e-visas.

The Pakistani side was told that decision relating to abolishing of 2,000 riyal fee will be made after holding consultation with Khadim-e-Haramayn al-Sharifayn.

The Saudi Arabian authorities assured to consider further increase in the Hajj quota according to new census.

Pir Noor ul Haq Qadri expressed gratification to the Saudi Arabian authorities for implementing suggestions put forth by Pakistan.

Last month, Qadri apprised the National Assembly that policy about Hajj 2019 would be devised in three months.

The minister said the process for formulation of Hajj Policy and Plan 2019 had been initiated.

He said decision about Hajj dues to be collected per Haji would be taken after consultation with all the stakeholders including the designated airlines in due course of time and the House would be informed accordingly.

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