Saudi Arabia Grants Pakistan Additional Quota of 10,000 Pilgrims for Hajj 2025
Every year, Muslims from all over the world come together in Makkah to take part in Hajj, which is
Every year, Muslims from all over the world come together in Makkah to take part in Hajj, which is the fifth and last pillar of Islam. It’s not just a religious duty it’s a deeply spiritual experience that Muslims long for their entire lives. In Pakistan, demand for Hajj grows every year, and in 2025, that demand has seen a major boost thanks to an exceptional diplomatic development. Saudi Arabia has graciously approved an additional 10,000 Hajj pilgrims from Pakistan, taking the country’s total quota to a historic new high.
This isn’t just news it’s a lifeline for those who feared they had missed their chance to perform Hajj this year. Let’s dive into the full story and explore what this increase means for aspiring pilgrims, the government, and the spiritual fabric of Pakistan.
The Official Announcement: A Breakthrough Moment
On April 12, 2025, Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar announced via social media that Saudi Arabia has officially approved 10,000 additional Hajj pilgrims for Pakistan. This move comes as a result of his direct communication with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud.
Dar expressed heartfelt gratitude, calling the decision a gesture of strong brotherhood and cooperation. According to his post, this special approval was granted after a phone call between the two ministers, in which Pakistan made a strong case for increasing the Hajj quota due to overwhelming demand.
Understanding the Original Hajj 2025 Quota
Pakistan’s initial Hajj quota for 2025 stood at 179,210 pilgrims, a figure decided earlier in coordination with Saudi Arabia. This quota typically reflects the size of the country’s Muslim population and logistical capacities in Makkah and Madinah.
Now, with the additional 10,000 slots, the total has increased to 189,210, marking one of the largest Hajj contingents Pakistan has ever sent.
Why the Additional Hajj 2025 Quota Was Requested
Let’s be honest Pakistan is a nation of nearly 240 million, the majority of whom are Muslim. Each year, tens of thousands apply to go for Hajj, but many are left heartbroken due to limited slots and strict deadlines. This year, the demand skyrocketed, and many couldn’t register on time.
Recognizing the need, the government took swift action. Ishaq Dar’s office reached out to Saudi authorities, requesting a special allowance for late registrants and those who missed deadlines. Thanks to this request and the goodwill of the Kingdom, the increase was approved.
Who Will Benefit From the Additional Hajj 2025 Quota?
This isn’t just a political headline it’s life-changing news for thousands. The 10,000 additional slots will primarily be allocated to:
- People who missed the Hajj registration deadline
- Individuals who were placed on waiting lists
- Elderly citizens or families applying under hardship or special circumstances
The Ministry of Religious Affairs has confirmed that the new slots will be fairly distributed, with preference given to those who were previously eligible but left out due to space limitations.
Diplomatic Efforts Behind Hajj 2025 Quota
This increase didn’t happen in isolation. It reflects years of strong diplomatic ties between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also played an important role by giving special instructions to help more citizens perform Hajj this year.
It’s also worth noting that the Saudi leadership under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has been actively working on expanding Hajj facilities, allowing them to accommodate more pilgrims from all over the world including this extra influx from Pakistan.
Start of Hajj Operations: April 29, 2025
The official Hajj operation from Pakistan will commence on April 29, 2025, beginning from Jinnah International Airport, Karachi. The first flight carrying Pakistani pilgrims will be operated by Serene Air, followed by a series of flights by Airblue, PIA, and other approved carriers.
This year’s operation is set to be the largest in Pakistan’s history, thanks to the extended quota.Hajj 2024 Sermon Advocates Compassion and Urgent Prayers Amid Gaza Crisis
Details of the First Flights
Here’s what the first few days of Hajj flights look like:
- April 29: Serene Air Flight ER 1611 departs at 10:15 PM with 285 pilgrims bound for Madinah.
- April 30: Airblue Flight PA 1766 departs at 3:40 AM carrying 148 pilgrims.
These flights will continue to run daily from various cities, ramping up as the month progresses.
Destinations: Madinah First, Then Jeddah
Initially, all flights will land in Madinah, allowing pilgrims to spend time at the Prophet’s Mosque (Masjid al-Nabawi). From May 14 onwards, most flights will start arriving at Jeddah International Airport, which is closer to Makkah.
However, some flights will continue to land in Madinah to give pilgrims a more spiritually enriching experience.
Government’s Role in Managing Logistics
Executing a Hajj operation of this scale is no small feat. The Ministry of Religious Affairs, in collaboration with Civil Aviation Authority, airlines, and immigration services, has been working tirelessly to:
- Arrange transportation and meals
- Provide vaccinations and medical screening
- Set up training sessions for pilgrims
- Ensure smooth baggage handling and departure processes
Each pilgrim will receive an ID card, travel kit, and emergency contacts before departure.
Facilities in Saudi Arabia for Pakistani Pilgrims
In Saudi Arabia, arrangements have been finalized for:
- Air-conditioned tents in Mina
- Group leaders (Moavineen) to guide pilgrims
- 24/7 medical centers and ambulances
- Easy access to Zamzam water, food, and hygiene supplies
Pilgrims will also get SIM cards and emergency support from the Pakistan Hajj Mission located in Makkah and Madinah.
The Government Hajj Scheme vs. Private Packages
Approximately 90,000 pilgrims will travel under the official Government Hajj Scheme, which offers:
- Fixed pricing
- Transparent selection process
- Coordinated logistics
On the other hand, private Hajj operators will handle the rest of the quota, offering customized experiences for those willing to pay more for added convenience, hotels, and services.
Training and Orientation Sessions
To ensure that every pilgrim understands the rituals, the Ministry conducts training sessions across the country. These include:
- Step-by-step guides on how to perform each Hajj ritual
- Travel guidelines
- Dos and don’ts in Saudi Arabia
- Safety and emergency procedures
These sessions are available both in-person and online.
The Emotional and Spiritual Impact
For many, Hajj is the culmination of a life’s dreams. This extra quota allows 10,000 more families to enjoy the happiness of standing in front of the Kaaba, praying in Masjid al-Haram, and walking the same paths that the Prophet (PBUH) once walked.
There’s no way to measure this in numbers. It’s hope. Faith. Devotion. And that’s priceless.
Media Coverage and Public Reaction
The news has been widely covered by major news outlets such as UrduNews, APP, and various local TV channels. The public response has been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing gratitude and emotional relief on social media.
Social media platforms are flooded with #Hajj2025 posts, with thousands sharing prayers and plans for their upcoming journey.
A Boost to Pakistan-Saudi Relations
This move isn’t just about numbers it symbolizes the deep-rooted friendship between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. Over the years, both nations have supported each other through thick and thin. This increase in Hajj quota only further cements that relationship.
It also opens the door to more religious tourism, economic ties, and people-to-people connections.
Conclusion
The decision by Saudi Arabia to allow 10,000 additional Hajj pilgrims from Pakistan is a historic milestone. It represents faith, diplomacy, and opportunity. For thousands of hopefuls, it’s a chance to finally answer a lifelong call. And for the governments involved, it’s a reflection of strong cooperation, mutual respect, and shared values.
As the skies begin to fill with the flights of pilgrims, one thing becomes clear: Hajj 2025 will be unforgettable not just for the rituals, but for the hearts it touches and the dreams it fulfills.
FAQs
1. When do Hajj 2025 flights from Pakistan begin?
Hajj operations start on April 29, 2025, with the first flight departing from Karachi.
2. Who is eligible for the additional 10,000 Hajj 2025 slots?
Primarily, those who missed the initial registration deadline or were placed on the waiting list.
3. How many total pilgrims can go from Pakistan now?
The total Hajj quota for Pakistan in 2025 is now 189,210.
4. Are the first flights landing in Makkah or Madinah?
Initially, flights will land in Madinah, then shift to Jeddah after May 14.
5. Is the government Hajj 2025 scheme better than private packages?
The government scheme offers transparency and affordability, while private packages offer more luxury and flexibility. It depends on your preferences and budget.
