Pakistan Extends Hajj Application Deadline as Government Sponsorship Scheme Sees Slow Response

 Blog Post 1: Pakistan Extends Hajj Application Deadline in Response to Low Participation

The government of Pakistan has decided to provide more time for individuals to apply for Hajj through its sponsorship scheme. This move comes in light of a lower-than-expected number of applications received. Under the 'Sponsorship Scheme Hajj,' the government has allocated 25,000 seats, allowing both overseas Pakistanis and residents in the country to participate or sponsor someone else's journey by paying in US dollars. Notably, applicants in this scheme are exempt from the usual balloting process.

Blog Post 2: Ministry of Religious Affairs Responds to Slow Hajj Applications

Sources reveal that only 3,161 applications have been received for the government's sponsorship scheme, falling significantly short of the allocated 25,000 quota. In response to this slow response, the Ministry of Religious Affairs has decided to extend the deadline by a week, aiming to ensure the full utilization of the allocated quota. Additionally, the ministry has received over 63,000 applications under the regular government scheme for Hajj.

Blog Post 3: Saudi Arabia's Quota Restoration and Age Limit Lift for Hajj

Amid these developments, it's crucial to note that Saudi Arabia has already restored Pakistan's pre-coronavirus Hajj quota, allowing 179,210 pilgrims to participate in the pilgrimage. Moreover, the upper age limit of 65 years for Hajj participation has been lifted by Saudi authorities. These adjustments reflect a commitment to making the Hajj pilgrimage more inclusive and accessible for Pakistani citizens. The decisions by both the Pakistani government and Saudi Arabia highlight ongoing efforts to facilitate a smoother and more accommodating Hajj experience.