Saudi Arabia increases Pakistan’s Haj quota 2018by 5,000

Saudi Arabia increases Pakistan’s Haj quota 2018by 5,000

Jeddah (Web Deks): Saudi Arabia after the efforts of Ministry of Religious Affairs, has approved a substantial jump in the number of intending pilgrims for upcoming Haj.

The media reports revealed that Saudi authorities have increased Haj quota for Pakistan by 5,000, taking the number of pilgrims to 184,210 from 179,210.

Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has informed the Pakistani ministry about the latest development, and assured that the hike in the quota will be effective from Haj to be performed later this year.

According to Haj policy, the additional quota will be distributed among the private tour operators, reports said.

Earlier, in 2017, the Arab country had enhanced Haj quota from 143,368 to 179,210 after an agreement with Pakistani officials.

Last month, the Ministry of Religious Affairs postponed the balloting of Haj applications under the government scheme for an indefinite period due to a stay order issued by the Sindh High Court.

The Religious Ministry officials have decided to move the Supreme Court against the high court’s orders, while the new date for the draw will be announced accordingly.