Thousands of Pakistani citizens hoping to perform Hajj under the private scheme have been left disappointed, as only 23,620 out of 89,800 applicants will be able to embark on the pilgrimage this year.

More than 67,000 people will miss the opportunity due to issues with the private quota.

According to official documents, Hajj flights are set to begin from April 29. However, most private tour operators under the private Hajj scheme failed to submit dues on time, resulting in complications related to visa processing and other arrangements.

Federal Minister Sardar Yousaf confirmed that only 10,000 pilgrims received special concessions from the Saudi government. He added that if further permissions are granted, Pakistan will request an extension from Saudi authorities for visa issuance and other formalities.

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Sources revealed that an agreement between private Hajj operators, Saudi officials, and the Pakistan Hajj Mission was finalised on December 10. However, the last date for booking services in Saudi Arabia was February 14. Due to unpaid dues by that deadline, thousands of names were removed from the final list.

Given the gravity of the situation, the Ministry of Religious Affairs has formed a three-member inquiry committee to investigate the reasons behind the underutilization of the private Hajj quota and identify those responsible.

The situation has sparked deep frustration among thousands of affected families who had dedicated their life savings for the pilgrimage, only to see their dreams shattered due to poor management and a lack of timely action.