Thousands of Pakistani pilgrims may miss Hajj this year after members of the Hajj & Umrah Organisers Association Pakistan revealed that around 67,000 individuals are still without Saudi visas, despite billions already transferred for arrangements.
Speaking in Peshawar, organiser Kamran Zaib disclosed that SAR2.67 billion (nearly PKR200 billion) was sent to Saudi Arabia by both pilgrims and private organisers. The amount, he said, includes advance hotel and service payments.
Zaib said overseas Pakistanis — nearly 30% of the 89,000 expected pilgrims — were also affected. He criticised the lack of a refund mechanism, stating that Rs220 million in advance tax was paid to the FBR, and Rs1.58 billion transferred to the Ministry of Religious Affairs.
The organisers also raised concerns over continued fund collection past the February 14 deadline, questioning why payments were accepted if arrangements were already closed.
Abid Awan, another organiser, blamed the daily transfer cap of Rs300,000, which limited their ability to send funds within the narrow January 10–February 14 window. “Our hands were tied, then we were blamed,” he said.
Organisers are now urging authorities to clarify the process for refunds and visa issuance.