The Pakistani government has introduced a new initiative aimed at easing the financial burden on low and middle-income citizens planning to undertake the Hajj pilgrimage. It reported in media that a proposal allowing pilgrims to pay their Hajj expenses in three installments, rather than in one lump sum, has been submitted to the federal cabinet for approval. Under this proposed payment plan, the total cost for Hajj is estimated at approximately Rs1.1 million. Prospective pilgrims would initially need to pay Rs200,000 to apply for Hajj. After being selected in a lottery, they would then pay an additional Rs400,000, with the remaining balance due prior to their departure. Officials from the Ministry of Religious Affairs have stated that this installment option is specifically designed to make Hajj more accessible for those who struggle to pay the full amount upfront.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan