Over 119,000 Pakistanis Performed Hajj Under Government Scheme, Cost Exceeds Rs139 Billion

A total of 119,210 Pakistani pilgrims performed Hajj this year under the government Hajj scheme, with total expenditures reaching Rs139.16 billion, according to an official report.
The report states that 77,743 pilgrims opted for the long Hajj package, which ranges from 40 to 45 days. This accounts for 65.2% of the total government-sponsored pilgrims. Each pilgrim under this package paid approximately Rs1.15 million.
Meanwhile, 41,467 pilgrims performed Hajj under the short-duration package of 20 to 22 days. This group represents 34.8% of the total quota, with each pilgrim paying around Rs1.2 million for the pilgrimage.
The data further reveals that 50,114 women performed Hajj under the government scheme, making up 43.5% of the total quota. In contrast, 65,182 men participated, accounting for 56.5%.
Officials said the government Hajj scheme continues to provide structured options for pilgrims, though costs remain high due to transportation, accommodation, and service arrangements in Saudi Arabia.
The report highlights both the scale of participation and the financial burden associated with organizing one of the largest annual religious gatherings for Pakistani citizens.