Islamabad: The pre-launch ceremony of the Third Pakistan Hajj and Umrah Exhibition 2025 took place in Islamabad on Thursday. The event was marked by discussions on enhancing facilities for Hajj pilgrims and increasing Pakistan’s participation in the global pilgrimage economy.

According to Radio Pakistan, the Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, Sardar Muhammad Yousaf, emphasized the government’s efforts to provide maximum facilities to Hajj pilgrims this year. He highlighted the need for Pakistani entrepreneurs to focus on producing high-quality products to boost the country’s exports, particularly in light of China’s competition in Hajj and Umrah-related exports. He also mentioned the government’s initiative to tackle the issue of begging in Saudi Arabia by taking strict actions against those involved.

In his address, the Prime Minister’s Coordinator on Commerce and Industries, Rana Ihsan Afzal Khan, reiterated the government’s dedication to enhancing the country’s religious tourism exports. He pointed out that while the global Hajj and Umrah-related economy is valued at approximately one hundred billion dollars, Pakistan’s contribution is merely one billion dollars, indicating a significant potential for growth.

The Pakistan Hajj and Umrah Exhibition 2025 is set to be the nation’s first and only dedicated business and export platform focusing on the pilgrimage economy. Scheduled for October this year, the exhibition aims to gather exporters, SMEs, manufacturers, service providers, banks, scholars, and international buyers under one roof. This event promises to create unique opportunities for trade, innovation, and partnerships within the sector.