Fuel price hike: What will happen to airfare for Hajj pilgirms?

Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Yousaf has confirmed that there will be no increase in airfare for Pakistani Hajj pilgrims this year, despite a surge in global oil prices that has affected travel costs worldwide.

Addressing concerns over potential fare hikes, the minister stated that the government has already secured agreements with airlines, ensuring that all pilgrims will travel to Saudi Arabia under pre-determined package rates. These agreements legally bind airlines to maintain the agreed pricing, preventing any last-minute increases.

Sardar Yousaf emphasized that the government remains committed to protecting pilgrims from additional financial burden, especially amid rising global costs. He added that all arrangements are being carried out according to the finalized Hajj package, ensuring transparency and consistency for travelers.

According to the minister, a total of 179,210 Pakistani pilgrims are expected to perform Hajj this year, with preparations underway to facilitate their travel smoothly and efficiently.

Earlier, there were also apprehensions of the Hajj flights being suspended or delayed due to the Middle East conflict. Pakistan’s Federal Ministry of Religious Affairs on Sunday strongly rejected reports claiming that Hajj flights had been suspended, calling the circulating information baseless.

The assurances comes as relief for thousands of intending pilgrims, as global economic pressures continue to impact travel and fuel costs, raising concerns about affordability for religious pilgrims worldwide.