Jeddah: Pakistan and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia have formalized the annual Hajj agreement for 2025, setting the stage for 179,210 Pakistani pilgrims to perform Hajj this year. The agreement was signed by Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, Chaudhry Salik Hussain, and Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Dr. Tawfiq bin Fawzan al-Rabiah.

According to a statement by Press Information Department, the agreement includes provisions to nhance facilities for Pakistani pilgrims, with special accommodations in Mina offered at reduced rates. The Saudi Minister assured comprehensive support to ensure improved facilities for the pilgrims.

The agreement introduces a shorter Hajj program, ranging from 20 to 25 days, to make the pilgrimage more accessible and comfortable. Pilgrims can select their accommodation in Medina for a duration of four to eight days.

Each pilgrim will receive a specially designed bag with the Pakistani flag, a QR code for identification, and relevant information. A mobile application will provide pilgrims with essential information, including Hajj group details, training schedules, flight details, and live maps of sites in Saudi Arabia.

Federal Minister Chaudhry Salik Hussain is also set to participate in an international Hajj conference and expo organized by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj in Jeddah. During this four-day event, additional agreements will be established with institutions and companies responsible for facilitating pilgrims.