The federal government has announced that it will refund Rs. 3.45 billion to over 66,000 Pakistani Hajj pilgrims who performed Hajj last year. The Ministry of Religious Affairs confirmed that the refund process will begin today and will be completed by October 31, 2025.
According to Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousaf, the government was able to save money from several expense categories during last year’s Hajj operations. These savings will now be returned to the pilgrims as part of the government’s commitment to transparency and fairness.
Each pilgrim will receive a refund amount ranging between Rs. 12,000 and Rs. 110,000, depending on the package and location they had selected. The refunds will be directly transferred to the pilgrims’ bank accounts to ensure quick and easy access to funds.
However, officials clarified that those who had chosen premium packages, including special accommodations and upgraded travel services, will not be eligible for the refund. The refund primarily applies to those who participated under the regular government Hajj scheme.
Minister Yousaf added that this initiative reflects the government’s effort to make the Hajj experience more affordable and transparent for citizens. He also assured that improvements are being made for the 2026 Hajj operations, including better accommodation arrangements and cost management.
This refund marks a positive step toward building public trust and ensuring that every pilgrim benefits from fair financial management of Hajj funds.
