State Bank Announces Weekend Operations for Hajj 2025 Applications
The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has announced extended banking hours on Saturday, November 30, and Sunday, December 1, 2024, to facilitate the submission of Hajj 2025 applications. Designated bank branches will operate from 9:00 AM to 2:30 PM to collect applications and dues from intending pilgrims.
According to the SBP circular, 15 banks have been authorized by the Ministry of Religious Affairs to collect Hajj applications and payments between November 18 and December 3, 2024.
Key Details of Hajj 2025 Policy:
- Quota and Costs:
Approximately 179,210 Pakistanis will perform Hajj under the government scheme next year, with costs ranging from Rs1,075,000 to Rs1,175,000. - Application Process:
- An initial payment of Rs200,000 is required with the application.
- Selected pilgrims must deposit an additional Rs400,000 after the balloting.
- The remaining amount must be paid by February 10, 2025.
- Refund Policy:
- If an application is canceled, Rs50,000 will be deducted from the first installment.
- Failure to pay the third installment will result in a deduction of Rs200,000.
- No refunds will be processed after February 10, 2025.
- Compensation for Heirs:
Compensation for the heirs of deceased pilgrims has been increased from Rs1 million to Rs2 million. - Special Allocations:
- 1,000 seats have been reserved for hardship cases.
- 300 seats are allocated for laborers and low-income employees registered under the Employees Old-Age Benefit Institution (EOBI) or Workers Welfare Fund.
- Facilities:
The Road to Makkah program will be available at Islamabad and Karachi international airports to streamline immigration processes for pilgrims.
Monitoring and Agreements
The Ministry of Religious Affairs has mandated that Hajj group organizers sign a service provider agreement, ensuring strict compliance with the policy.
The federal cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, approved the Hajj Policy 2025 last week, aiming to facilitate pilgrims with improved services and streamlined processes.
For further information, applicants are advised to visit designated bank branches or contact the Ministry of Religious Affairs.
