April 22, 2025 – Islamabad: Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, Sardar Muhammad Yousuf, made it clear that Saudi Arabia’s Hajj policy applies equally to all countries, including Pakistan. His statement came at a time of concern about the expiration of the 67,000 Hajj quota for Pakistan under the private scheme for 2025.​

Hajj Policy Applies to All Countries

At the National Hajj Conference 2025, which the Pakistan Ulema Council organized, Minister Yousuf talked about the importance of taking care of the pilgrims and assured that, in case other countries are offered some facilities, they will also be extended to the Pakistani pilgrims. He further pointed out the tireless efforts of the Deputy Prime Minister and himself, which made it possible for the Saudi government to agree to take an additional 10,000 Pakistani pilgrims after the initial deadline of February 14.​

The minister also said that all the people who were not picked for Hajj as a result of the quota would have their payment returned by the agencies. He added that all the pilgrims must strictly stick to the Hajj application channels. The minister stressed that the Saudi authorities would grant permission only to those who had obtained an authorized Hajj visa from official platforms to go for the pilgrimage.​

As per the updated rules, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah in Saudi Arabia has reconfirmed that only such pilgrims who are issued an official permit through the “Nusuk” platform, which is part of the unified digital platform for Hajj permits, “Tasreeh,” may participate. The ministry reminded the people that anyone found guilty of violating Hajj regulations is likely to be treated as a violator of the regulations.​

The Pakistani government is actively in discussions with Saudi authorities to confirm that the rights of its citizens are being protected and the upcoming Hajj events are well-arranged so that such problems will not occur again.