By Raziq Ali Shah
MADINAH AL MUNAWWARAH, Jun 16 (APP): Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, Sardar Muhammad Yousaf while appreciating Pakistan’s Hajj Mission for its exemplary arrangements for pilgrims during Hajj 2025 said on Monday that the post-Hajj operation will conclude on July 10.
Talking to media persons after visiting various sections of the Pakistan Hajj Mission, the minister said that following the successful completion of the pre-Hajj operation, the second phase has commenced and is scheduled to end on July 10.
He said that over 11,000 Hujjaj, including around 3,000 from Madinah, have returned to Pakistan so far.
Preparations for Hajj 2026 have also been initiated, as the Saudi Hajj policy and timeline for next year have been received, allowing for timely and efficient planning, he added.
Sardar Yousaf extended heartfelt congratulations to all Pakistani pilgrims for successfully completing their spiritual journey, crediting the accomplishment to the special interest and leadership of Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif.
He also expressed profound gratitude to the Saudi leadership especially King Salman bin Abdulaziz, Crown Prince Muhammad bin Salman, and the Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah Dr. Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah for their exemplary arrangements and warm hospitality extended to over 115,000 Pakistani pilgrims.
The Minister said that Pakistan’s DG Hajj, Abdul Wahab Soomro, has received an “Excellence Award” from the Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah for his outstanding and innovative leadership in managing Hajj operations. Every effort would be made to secure diamond and gold medals in the coming year, he said.
Earlier, Director Hajj Madinah, Mr. Zia-ur-Rehman, gave a comprehensive briefing on the post-Hajj arrangements, outlining key measures taken to address pilgrims’ needs in a timely and effective manner.
Briefing the minister, Zia-ur-Rehman said that 39,717 pilgrims had arrived in Madinah during the pre-Hajj phase, with 34,189 arriving under the long Hajj scheme and 5,528 under the short scheme. After Hajj, 48,663 pilgrims (32,869 under the long scheme and 15,589 under the short scheme) are scheduled to arrive in Madinah, he added.
He said all pilgrims were accommodated in three and five-star hotels in the Markaziyyah area, in close proximity to Masjid al-Nabawi (SAWW).
Regarding food arrangements, he apprised that 13 catering companies operating under the supervision of Pakistani chefs were engaged to serve meals that catered to the tastes of the pilgrims.
Zia-ur-Rehman said that the Hajj Mission ensured 100 percent of the pilgrims’ visits to Riazul Jannah before Hajj, with most having the opportunity to visit twice. The Moavineen (Hajj supporting staff) actively assisted pilgrims with online registrations for Riazul Jannah visits and provided proper guidance within Masjid al-Nabawi (SAWW).
Earlier, the minister took around the Pakistan Hajj Mission’s Main Control Office in Madinah, where he reviewed the operations of the Lost & Found Cell, Complaint Cell, Early Departure Desk, and IT Cell.
He also inspected the Medical Mission facilities, including the dental clinic, minor OT, pharmacy, and OPD, ensuring that all services were functioning efficiently and were fully equipped to serve the pilgrims.
The Minister reaffirmed his strong commitment to providing the highest level of comfort, care, and support to the Hujjaj, emphasizing that every possible effort must be made to facilitate them at every stage of their spiritual journey.
He praised the dedication of the staff and urged them to continue serving with compassion, responsibility, and a spirit of devotion.
He also lauded the effective role of media in positively projecting Hajj operation and soft image of the country apart from disseminating timely accurate information the guests of Allah Almighty.
