In a significant stride towards streamlining the Hajj pilgrimage experience, Pakistan poised to reveal a meticulously crafted Hajj training schedule and biometric verification of its pilgrims next week. The revelation made by Aneeq Ahmed, the Minister of Religious Affairs in Pakistan, following a crucial meeting with Saudi Arabia’s Ambassador, Nawaf Bin Said Al-Malki, at the Saudi embassy in Islamabad.
The discussions between Minister Aneeq Ahmed and Ambassador Al-Malki revolved around various facets of the upcoming Hajj, with a particular focus on finalizing the arrangements for this sacred pilgrimage.
The Pakistani religious affairs ministry, in a statement, disclosed, “Aneeq further conveyed that his ministry is gearing up to unveil a comprehensive training and biometric schedule for the pilgrims next week.” An innovative feature highlighted in the statement is the convenience offered to Pakistani Hajj pilgrims, who will now have the option to complete their Saudi visa biometrics using the Bio App from the comfort of their homes.
Hajj, an annual Islamic pilgrimage entrenched in tradition for over 1,400 years, stands as one of the five pillars of Islam. It mandates every financially and physically able adult Muslim to embark on a pilgrimage to the holy Islamic sites in Makkah at least once in their lifetime.
In a noteworthy move last year, Saudi Arabia reinstated Pakistan’s pre-coronavirus Hajj quota, allowing 179,210 pilgrims to partake in the pilgrimage. The upper age limit of 65 years for performing Hajj also lifted. In 2023, over 81,000 Pakistani pilgrims chose the government scheme, while others opted for private tour operators.
In December 2023, Pakistan announced the results of a draw for Hajj 2024, selecting over 63,000 applicants for the upcoming pilgrimage through the government scheme. The remainder will seek the pilgrimage experience through private tour operators.
During his meeting with the Saudi ambassador, Minister Aneeq Ahmed underscored the extensive preparations undertaken for Hajj this year, emphasizing that Pakistan has implemented unique measures for the convenience of its pilgrims.
Ambassador Al-Malki extended congratulations to Pakistan for securing a position among the top three countries receiving awards for the best coordination and provision of Hajj services. He commended Minister Ahmed for ensuring excellent facilities for the pilgrims and acknowledged the praiseworthy role of the Pakistani religious affairs ministry and the Hajj mission in catering to the needs of the pilgrims.
