by Excitement fills the air as the countdown to Hajj 2024 begins! After much anticipation, the organizers of private Hajj bookings in Pakistan are gearing up to kick off reservations for this sacred journey. This thrilling news was unveiled during a significant press conference led by none other than Hafiz Muhammad Tahir Mahmood Ashrafi, the esteemed Prime Minister’s advisor on Religious Affairs, alongside prominent members of the Hajj Organizers Association of Pakistan.
Starting this Friday, both local and international pilgrims can secure their spots for the revered pilgrimage, with the booking window staying open until February 25. And here’s a bonus: there’s talk of a possible extension, giving hopeful pilgrims more time to apply, all thanks to the efforts of private Hajj organizers.
With a quota of 89,604 pilgrims, including a generous 50% allocation for 44,802 pilgrims under the Sponsorship Hajj Scheme, the stage is set for an extraordinary journey of faith and devotion.
Ashrafi passionately highlighted the importance of easing financial transactions for Pakistani pilgrims abroad, suggesting the use of International Bank Account Numbers (IBAN) for transfers into the accounts of private Hajj organizers in Saudi Arabia. To further assist pilgrims, the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, in collaboration with HOAP, has set up a dedicated helpline, ensuring round-the-clock support.
Gratitude was expressed to both the Pakistani and Saudi governments for their forward-thinking preparations, ensuring top-notch facilities for pilgrim comfort. In a strategic move, each Hajj organizer will now oversee a smaller group of 500 pilgrims, promising a more personalized experience. This adjustment not only secures job opportunities for private Hajj organizers but also fosters a harmonious partnership between the government and the business sector.
Moreover, HOAP has implemented a robust self-accountability system within private Hajj organizers, ensuring swift resolution of concerns and strict consequences for any misconduct, prioritizing pilgrim welfare above all else. Meanwhile, HOAP Chairman Jamal Khan Tarakai announced plans for a comprehensive training program aimed at pilgrims nationwide, equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to perform their religious rites comfortably in the Kingdom, fostering a spiritually enriching experience for all.
