ISLAMABAD: The National Assembly Standing Committee on Religious Affairs on Thursday directed the Ministry of Religious Affairs to prepare a comprehensive framework for facilitating millions of Pakistani Zaireen who visit holy sites in Iraq and Saudi Arabia each year.
The meeting, chaired by Shagufta Jumani, was briefed that Iraq has recently restricted visas for men under 50 traveling alone. The committee held a detailed discussion on the Zaireen policy and directed the ministry to continue the traditional Salaar system for managing pilgrim groups.
The chairperson urged the ministry to launch awareness campaigns through print, electronic, and social media to guide Zaireen on travel rules, protocols, and safety measures. The panel also called for a subsidy package, including a $50 cost reduction, on the pattern of Hajj facilities.
On air travel, the committee recommended consultations with Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) and other authorities to initiate direct flights from Karachi to Najaf. It also proposed permanent facilitation desks at major airports and the restoration of Pakistan Houses in Makkah and Madinah to ensure dignified accommodation for pilgrims.
To improve services, the committee stressed that contracts for pilgrim facilitation should be awarded to multiple reputable companies through a transparent process, encouraging competition and efficiency.
The panel also expressed dissatisfaction over arrangements for the annual official delegation to Roza-e-Rasool (PBUH), insisting the delegation be accorded the status of state guests. Members emphasized the importance of ensuring the delegation’s timely departure and presence on 12th Rabi-ul-Awal, considering the sanctity and significance of the occasion.
For this purpose, a sub-committee headed by Ms. Jumani comprising Asiya Naz Tanoli, Samina Khalid Ghurki, and Syed Sami Ullah was formed to review existing SOPs and draft recommendations in consultation with Saudi authorities.
The committee also took up the National Commission for Minorities Rights Bill, 2025, moved by Naveed Amir Jeeva.
The meeting was attended by MNAs Pir Syed Fazal Ali Shah Jilani, Seema Mohi-ud-Din Jameeli, Asiya Naz Tanoli, Dr. Nelson Azeem, Samina Khalid Ghurki, Ahmed Saleem Siddiqui, Mussarat Rafique Mahesar, and Muneeba Iqbal, along with Minister of State Kesoo Mal Kheal Das, the Secretary, and senior officers of the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Inter-Faith Harmony.
