Saudi Arabia lifts male guardian rule for female Hajj pilgrims

Islamabad: Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousaf has stated that Saudi Arabia has removed the requirement for a mahram (male guardian) for female pilgrims, and there are considerations to allow payment of Hajj expenses in installments again this year.

A meeting of the National Assembly’s Standing Committee on the Ministry of Religious Affairs was held under the chairmanship of Aamir Dogar. During the meeting, Minister Sardar Muhammad Yousaf briefed the committee.

Sardar Yousaf informed that the Hajj for the year 2025 was successful, and the Saudi government awarded Pakistan an Excellence Award — a first for the country. He said feedback from pilgrims was overwhelmingly positive, and the task force made excellent arrangements. Any complaints from pilgrims were resolved on the spot. For the first time, air-conditioned facilities were provided for Pakistani pilgrims in the sacred sites, including Arafat, where air-conditioned tents were arranged.

He added that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had directed that all arrangements be made in accordance with Saudi guidelines.