National Pakistan Requests Hajj Quota Reinstatement for Elderly Pilgrims Left Behind

News Desk

Islamabad: In a last-ditch diplomatic effort, Pakistan’s Ministry of Religious Affairs has submitted a formal written appeal to Saudi Arabia, urging the reinstatement of the country’s private Hajj quota for 2025. The appeal, written in both English and Arabic, highlights the plight of 67,000 Pakistani pilgrims who were excluded from this year’s Hajj arrangements due to technical issues and the non-payment of service provider fees.

The Ministry emphasized that many of the affected pilgrims are elderly and may not have another opportunity to perform the sacred pilgrimage. It noted that the emotional distress and disappointment experienced by these individuals is immeasurable.

According to the Ministry, the funds for the excluded pilgrims have already been transferred to Saudi authorities. The appeal requests that any remaining space in Mina — the designated tent city for Hajj pilgrims — be allocated to Pakistan in order to accommodate these individuals.

The letter assured Saudi officials that, moving forward, Pakistan’s private Hajj operators will strictly comply with all rules, procedures, and deadlines set by the Kingdom. The Ministry described the reinstatement of the private quota as a humanitarian gesture of Islamic solidarity and compassion.

The Ministry also expressed hope that Saudi Arabia would consider the request favorably in light of the deep religious and fraternal ties between the two countries.