Pilgrims Unable to Perform Hajj to Receive Full Refund, Says Ministry

Islamabad – June 22, 2025: The Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony has announced that Pakistani pilgrims who were unable to perform Hajj 2025 due to health or administrative reasons will receive a 100% refund of their expenses, offering relief to hundreds affected by heat-related illnesses and last-minute travel disruptions.

The decision follows multiple complaints from families and travel coordinators after some pilgrims—particularly elderly and medically vulnerable individuals—were unable to proceed with rituals or reach the designated sites in time.

Refund Criteria and Process

According to ministry officials, the refund applies to:

Pilgrims who could not reach Mina, Arafat, or Muzdalifah
Pilgrims who were hospitalized and medically declared unfit during Hajj days
Individuals who faced official logistical failures, such as missed transport or accommodation problems

Affected pilgrims or their next of kin must submit relevant documentation, including hospital records and official verification forms, through designated Hajj facilitation centers across Pakistan.

“The government stands by its promise of a transparent and humane Hajj experience. No one will lose their money if they could not fulfill the pilgrimage due to circumstances beyond their control,” said a ministry spokesperson.

Background: Extreme Weather Disruptions

Hajj 2025 witnessed record-breaking heat, with temperatures soaring above 48°C (118°F) in Makkah. Health authorities confirmed that dozens of pilgrims, including several Pakistanis, suffered from heatstroke, dehydration, and exhaustion, leading to their evacuation to medical facilities.

The Saudi authorities had issued advisories urging pilgrims to limit exposure to direct sunlight, yet many elderly individuals faced severe challenges navigating the physically demanding rituals.

Public Reaction and Transparency Push

Religious scholars and civil society activists welcomed the decision, urging the government to enhance future Hajj preparations, including:

Real-time medical monitoring of elderly pilgrims
Stronger coordination with Saudi transport authorities
Clearer refund policies in official documentation

“This refund policy reflects compassion. But more must be done to ensure no pilgrim is put at unnecessary risk,” said Mufti Abdul Qadir, a Lahore-based Islamic scholar.