The cost of Hajj for 2025 has been announced, and the government has set clear guidelines to help pilgrims prepare for this important journey. Each year, millions of Muslims from around the world travel to Mecca, Saudi Arabia, for Hajj, which is a sacred pilgrimage and one of the five pillars of Islam. Let’s break down the latest news on the cost, new rules, and health requirements to make things clear and easy to understand.
Hajj 2025 Cost per Person
For Hajj 2025, the federal cabinet has approved a new Hajj Policy that includes the cost each pilgrim will need to pay. The package price ranges between PKR 1,065,000 and PKR 1,075,000. The government has estimated this amount to cover all the necessary expenses, including flights, accommodations, food, and other services during the pilgrimage.
How Many Pilgrims Can Perform Hajj This Year?
In 2025, around 179,210 pilgrims from Pakistan will get the chance to perform Hajj. This number includes pilgrims from both government and private sectors. The government will manage some of these slots, while private operators will handle others. Here’s the breakdown:
- 5,000 slots are reserved for a government-run sponsorship scheme.
- 25,000 slots are designated for private Hajj operators who offer packages for those preferring private arrangements.
Health Guidelines and Medical Conditions: Who Can Go for Hajj?
In line with Saudi Arabia’s updated health policies, the Pakistani Ministry of Religious Affairs has introduced specific health requirements to ensure all pilgrims are fit for the journey. Only those in good health can go for Hajj, as the pilgrimage can be physically challenging. Here’s a look at who may not qualify for Hajj this year due to health reasons:
- Serious Medical Conditions:
- Pilgrims with severe conditions like heart, respiratory, or kidney diseases, as well as those battling cancer, are not permitted to go for Hajj.
- This rule helps ensure that people with serious illnesses avoid the physical strain of Hajj.
- Patients Currently on Treatment:
- Individuals who are undergoing treatments such as dialysis or those who have recently experienced a heart attack will not be allowed to go.
- People with lung diseases are also restricted, as these can lead to complications in the crowded, hot climate of Hajj.
- Other Health Exclusions:
- People with liver failure, severe mental health issues, or neurological conditions (conditions related to the brain and nerves) will also be ineligible.
- Physical disabilities that make it difficult to move around, or memory-related issues like amnesia, are also grounds for exclusion.
- Pregnant Women and Infectious Diseases:
- Women who are more than seven months pregnant cannot go for Hajj.
- Pilgrims with infectious diseases, like tuberculosis or other recent viral infections, are restricted from performing Hajj to prevent the spread of illness.
Required Vaccinations for Hajj
To help keep everyone safe and healthy, the Ministry of Religious Affairs has listed several important vaccinations that every pilgrim must receive before going for Hajj. These vaccines protect against common illnesses that can spread easily in crowded places. The following vaccinations are mandatory:
- Meningitis – Protects against brain and spinal cord infections.
- Influenza (Flu) – Reduces the chance of catching and spreading the flu.
- COVID-19 – Helps protect against the coronavirus and its variants.
- Polio – Prevents the spread of polio, a disease that can cause paralysis.
All intending pilgrims need to provide a health certificate proving that they have received these vaccinations and are healthy enough for the journey. This helps to ensure that every pilgrim is in good shape and can participate fully in the rituals of Hajj.
Why Are These Rules Important?
The purpose of these rules is to protect pilgrims, particularly those who may be more vulnerable due to health concerns. Hajj involves a lot of physical activity, including walking, climbing, and being in large crowds. For someone with a health condition, this could be risky, so the government is making sure only those who are physically prepared undertake the journey.
What to Do if You Want to Perform Hajj in 2025
If you’re planning to perform Hajj next year, here are some steps you can take to prepare:
- Check Your Health Status: If you have any serious health issues, consult with your doctor to see if you’re fit enough to go for Hajj. You may also need to get a fitness certificate.
- Get Vaccinated: Make sure to receive all the required vaccinations as early as possible and keep your records handy.
- Prepare Financially: Plan your budget based on the estimated cost, keeping in mind that the package ranges from PKR 1,065,000 to PKR 1,075,000. It’s a good idea to start saving early or explore payment options if available.
- Stay Informed: Rules and regulations can change, so stay updated by checking official announcements from the Ministry of Religious Affairs.
Final Thoughts on Hajj 2025
Hajj is a journey that requires both spiritual and physical preparation. The new Hajj Policy aims to create a safe and fulfilling experience for every pilgrim by prioritizing health and safety. With these guidelines, the government ensures that pilgrims are well-protected and can focus on the spiritual aspect of this important journey.
As you prepare for Hajj, remember to take care of your health, plan your finances, and follow the new regulations to have a safe and memorable experience in 2025.
I’m Nawaz, a Pakistani blogger with 12 years of experience in news, tech, jobs, and education. I write for Iknews.pk and hold an Masters of Business Administration from Virtual University.
