Saudi Arabia has issued Hajj clearance to another 2,078 Pakistani pilgrims, sources in Pakistan’s Ministry of Religious Affairs said.
The clearance is a huge relief to many who were earlier in danger of missing out on the spiritual journey this year.
Saudi Arabia issued the clearance to private Hajj tour operators who met its rigorous criteria and operational standards. With this latest addition, the total quota issued to Pakistan’s accredited private Hajj tour operators has now reached 25,698 pilgrims.
Ministry sources stated that because of restricted quotas and strict regulations, almost 67,000 applicants were initially not able to find a place for Hajj this year. The new clearance has reduced the figure to around 65,000, giving new hope to more would-be pilgrims.
The Religious Affairs Ministry continues to negotiate with Saudi authorities in hopes of further raising the quota, particularly for those on private Hajj schemes.
Officials also assured that they are keeping a watchful eye over all approved private organizers to guarantee transparency, safety, and adherence to both nations’ regulations.
