ISLAMABAD: Deadline for receiving Hajj applications under government Hajj scheme extended by 13 days and the government postponed Hajj 2025 lucky draw.
In response to a lower-than-expected number of Hajj applications, the Ministry of Religious Affairs has decided to extend the deadline for submitting applications and postpone the Hajj lucky draw.
According to ministry sources, the deadline for Hajj applications under the government scheme is expected to be extended by 13 days. Originally scheduled for December 6, the lucky draw will now take place on December 19.
As of now, approximately 55,000 applications have been submitted under the government Hajj scheme. The ministry hopes that the extension will encourage more applicants to seize the opportunity.
The final announcement regarding the extended deadline and revised draw date is expected tomorrow.
To facilitate the application process, the State Bank of Pakistan recently instructed designated banks to remain open on Saturdays and Sundays until 2:30 p.m. to collect Hajj applications. This decision was made at the ministry’s request to ensure smooth submission until the original deadline of December 3.
Earlier in November, the government announced a significant reduction in Hajj airfares for 2025, providing financial relief to pilgrims. Under the revised fares, each of the 89,605 pilgrims will pay Rs.220,000 for air travel, a reduction of Rs.14,000 compared to last year’s fare of Rs.234,000.