Skyrocketing inflation has made performing Umrah increasingly difficult, especially during Ramadan, as visa and travel expenses surge beyond affordability.
Sixty-year-old Allah Ditta, who had been eagerly visiting travel agencies with hopes of performing Umrah, found his dreams shattered due to soaring costs.
"We wanted to go during Ramadan, but the cost has now exceeded Rs350,000. Just six months ago, the package was around Rs200,000. I had saved only a limited amount, and now it feels impossible," he shared.
Travel agents are also witnessing a decline in Umrah bookings. Fahad Mufti, a travel agent, noted that the rising expenses have led to a 40–50% drop in travelers. He urged the government to introduce measures to ease the financial burden on pilgrims.
For many, like Allah Ditta, years of savings are no longer enough to fulfill their spiritual aspirations. With travel and accommodation costs soaring, the sacred journey has become a distant dream for thousands of hopeful pilgrims.
