Saudi authorities have told Pakistan that unlike the last Hajj, in which only limited number of people from each country was allowed due to novel coronavirus (Covid-19) considerations, the next Hajj will see the full country specific quotas restored.
As a result, it is expected that some 179,210 Pakistanis will be able to make the annual pilgrimage.
Last year, due to Covid-19 restrictions, only 81,132 Pakistanis were allowed to perform the Hajj after undergoing rigorous screenings, vaccinations and other conditions.
The announcement for the increased quota comes a few days after Riyadh had approved to extend the term for which it will keep $3 billion parked in Pakistani accounts to help stave off default.