Umrah Cost Increases to Over Rs300,000; Pilgrims Disappointed
The cost of performing Umrah has surged to more than Rs300,000 this year, leaving thousands of intending pilgrims across Pakistan disheartened. Travel operators attribute the increase to rising airfares, accommodation charges in Makkah and Madinah, and fluctuations in the exchange rate.
According to tour operators, the average Umrah package that previously cost around Rs200,000–Rs220,000 has now crossed the Rs300,000 mark, with premium packages becoming even more expensive. The sharp hike has forced many families to postpone their pilgrimage plans, particularly those from middle- and lower-income groups.
Pilgrims expressed disappointment, stating that performing Umrah is a spiritual desire for millions, but the rising costs are turning it into a privilege for the few who can afford it. “This is a dream for every Muslim, but with these rates, it’s slipping away from ordinary people,” said one intending pilgrim.
Religious affairs experts note that inflation, coupled with increased demand during Ramadan and peak seasons, has significantly driven up the overall cost. They urged the government to intervene by negotiating with airlines and Saudi authorities to provide affordable packages for Pakistani citizens.
Travel associations also appealed for subsidies or special quotas to ensure that more people can fulfill their religious obligations without being burdened by financial hardship.
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خلاصہ (اردو میں):
عمرہ اخراجات تین لاکھ روپے سے تجاوز کر گئے ہیں جس پر عازمین نے مایوسی کا اظہار کیا ہے۔ ٹریول ایجنٹس کے مطابق ہوائی کرایوں اور رہائش کے بڑھتے اخراجات اس اضافے کی بڑی وجوہات ہیں۔
