The Ministry of Religious Affairs has approved new guidelines enabling close relatives to perform Hajj on behalf of registered pilgrims unable to travel due to death or illness.
Officials confirmed that the updated policy aims to safeguard the spiritual aspirations of families while ensuring that allocated slots are not wasted during the pilgrimage season.
Under the new framework, families of deceased pilgrims can nominate immediate relatives to perform the sacred duty, subject to official approval and verification procedures.
In cases of illness or unavoidable circumstances, applicants have been given two options, either seeking a refund of deposited funds or nominating another individual to travel.
The ministry has also underlined that every application for refund or replacement must be supported by solid evidence, to protect against misuse of the facility.
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Required documents include medical or death certificates, affidavits on stamp paper, bank payment receipts, and copies of identity cards of applicants or nominees.
Last week, the government introduced a refund policy for Hajj applicants unable to proceed with the pilgrimage because of medical problems or other unavoidable circumstances.
The Ministry of Religious Affairs had finalized guidelines to facilitate affected pilgrims, ensuring transparency and fairness in the refund process for all eligible applicants.
As per the details, applicants must provide a valid photocopy of their national identity card, the original bank receipt of their Hajj deposit, and related medical documentation.