Islamabad, April 6, 2025 – The Ministry of Religious Affairs has officially announced that Pakistan will commence its Hajj flight operations for the year 2025 on April 29.
This clarification comes after confusion was caused by an earlier statement from Federal Minister Sardar Muhammad Yousaf, who mistakenly noted May 28 as the starting date. The Ministry has since confirmed that the previous statement should be disregarded.
The launch of these operations marks a critical phase in Pakistan’s annual pilgrimage planning, with thousands of registered pilgrims now preparing for their journey to Saudi Arabia. The Ministry emphasized that all logistical and administrative arrangements are being finalized to ensure the smooth execution of Hajj operations across the country.
In a significant related development, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has ordered a high-level inquiry into Pakistan’s failure to fully utilize its private Hajj quota for 2025. The shortfall left many aspiring pilgrims unable to secure a place, sparking widespread disappointment and criticism.
Initial reports suggest that the failure stems from Pakistan’s inability to meet essential criteria outlined in Saudi Arabia’s updated Hajj policy. These unmet requirements may affect future participation in the pilgrimage and have cast a shadow over this year’s otherwise well-organized operations.
To address this, the Prime Minister has formed a three-member inquiry committee under the Cabinet Division to investigate the reasons behind this administrative lapse. The committee will be led by the Secretary of the Cabinet Division and will examine the bureaucratic missteps that resulted in the non-compliance with Saudi Hajj guidelines.
This move reflects the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability, particularly in matters affecting religious duties held dear by millions across Pakistan. The findings of the inquiry will be crucial in shaping future Hajj operations, ensuring such a situation does not recur.
As Pakistan prepares to begin Hajj operations, authorities are hopeful that the remaining arrangements will proceed smoothly and that pilgrims will be able to perform their religious obligations with ease and dignity.