Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Yousaf has assured that airfare for Pakistani Hajj pilgrims will not increase this year, even though global oil prices have surged, impacting travel expenses worldwide.
Addressing fears of fare hikes, the minister explained that the government has secured binding agreements with airlines, guaranteeing that pilgrims will travel to Saudi Arabia under fixed package rates. These contracts prevent airlines from imposing any last-minute price increases.
Sardar Yousaf highlighted the government’s commitment to shielding pilgrims from additional financial strain amid rising global costs. He confirmed that all arrangements are proceeding the finalized Hajj package, ensuring transparency and consistency for travelers.
This year, 179,210 Pakistani pilgrims are expected to perform Hajj, with preparations underway to facilitate their journey smoothly and efficiently.
Earlier concerns about potential suspension or delays of Hajj flights due to the Middle East conflict were firmly dismissed by the Federal Ministry of Religious Affairs, which labeled such reports as baseless.
These assurances provide relief to thousands of intending pilgrims, as global economic pressures continue to affect travel and fuel costs, raising worries about affordability for religious travelers worldwide.
