ISLAMABAD: Pakistan will be announcing a schedule for training and biometric verification of Hajj pilgrims next week, its religious affairs minister said on Thursday.
The announcement came after Pakistani Religious Affairs Minister Aneeq Ahmed’s meeting with Saudi Arabia’s Ambassador Nawaf Bin Said Al-Malki at the Saudi embassy in Islamabad.
Both figures discussed various aspects of the upcoming Hajj and deliberated on finalizing the arrangements for the pilgrimage.
“Aneeq further told that his ministry will announce a detailed training and biometric schedule for the pilgrims next week,” the Pakistani religious affairs ministry said.
“Pakistani Hajj pilgrims will now be able to complete their Saudi visa biometrics using the Bio App from the comfort of their homes.”
Hajj is an annual Islamic pilgrimage that has been in practice for over 1,400 years. It is one of the five pillars of Islam and requires every adult Muslim to undertake a journey to the holy Islamic sites in Makkah at least once in their lifetime (if they are financially and physically able).
Last year, Saudi Arabia restored Pakistan’s pre-coronavirus Hajj quota of 179,210 pilgrims and lifted the upper age limit of 65 years to perform the pilgrimage. More than 81,000 Pakistani pilgrims performed Hajj under the government scheme in 2023 while the rest used private tour operators.
In Dec. 2023, Pakistan announced results of a draw for Hajj 2024, with more than 63,000 applicants selected for the next year’s pilgrimage under the government scheme. The remaining will be applying for the pilgrimage through private tour operators.
In his meeting with the Saudi ambassador, Ahmed highlighted the comprehensive Hajj preparations being made ahead of schedule this year and said Pakistan had implemented several unique measures for the convenience of its pilgrims.
Ambassador Al-Malki congratulated Pakistan for its inclusion in top three countries receiving awards for best coordination and provision of best Hajj services, according to the Pakistani religious affairs ministry.
He praised Ahmed for ensuring excellent facilities for the pilgrims and acknowledged the commendable role of the Pakistani religious affairs ministry and the Hajj mission for the pilgrims.
