The Ministry of Religious Affairs has introduced a shorter Hajj option for Pakistani pilgrims, as announced during a meeting of the Senate Standing Committee on Religious Affairs chaired by JUIF leader Maulana Abdul Ghafoor Hyderi.
Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Aneeq Ahmed revealed that the short Hajj will last between 18 to 20 days, with the decision to opt for it left to the pilgrims themselves.
The committee chairman suggested that the duration of the short Hajj should range from 18 to 30 days, and the proposal will be further discussed.
Saudi Arabian authorities have also directed a reduction in the number of Hajj companies from 905 to 46.
Aneeq Ahmed, who recently visited Saudi Arabia, held discussions on pilgrimage arrangements for the upcoming year with Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Dr. Tawfiq Al-Rabiah. During his visit, Ahmed explored the expansion of the Makkah Route Initiative to provide greater convenience to Pakistani pilgrims beyond Islamabad.
Following his meeting with the Saudi minister, Ahmed announced that Saudi Arabia had agreed to enhance facilities for Pakistani pilgrims in preparation for the upcoming Hajj season. He stressed the importance of expeditiously finalizing accommodation, food, and travel arrangements for the pilgrims, as well as ensuring their proximity to the religious sites.
Ahmed also advocated for the expansion of the Makkah Route project to include other cities beyond Islamabad, making the pilgrimage journey more accessible and convenient for all Pakistani pilgrims.
