ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI) has sought a dedicated quota of 100 Hajj pilgrims to facilitate members of Islamabad’s business community wishing to perform Hajj each year.
The ICCI formally taken up the matter with the Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousaf during his visit to the chamber house here on Tuesday.
In response the minister has responded positively to the proposal, indicating that it could be implemented from the next Hajj.
During the meeting, Sardar Muhammad Yousaf said that the government was making comprehensive arrangements for Hajj 2027 and remained committed to providing maximum possible facilities to Pakistani pilgrims. He informed the participants that approximately 450,000 intending pilgrims had registered for Hajj over the next three years, while the annual Hajj quota stood at 180,000. He added that selection would be made on a first-come, first-served basis.
The minister appreciated ICCI’s role in advocating ease of doing business and promoting the country’s economic development.
He acknowledged the Chamber’s efforts to highlight the concerns of the business community and contribute to economic progress through constructive engagement with the government and relevant institutions. Member of the National Assembly Babar Nawaz Khan and Brigadier Shehzad Awan (Retd) accompanied the minister during the visit.
ICCI President Mohammad Zikria Akbar Zia briefed the minister on the Chamber’s forthcoming initiatives aimed at promoting economic prosperity in Islamabad and the surrounding region. He highlighted ICCI’s commitment to supporting the business community and advancing initiatives that contribute to economic growth and community welfare. He also informed the minister that ICCI would soon organize a Naat Khawani programme and invited him to attend as the chief guest.
ICCI Senior Vice President Mohammad Ashfaq Hussain Chatha and Vice President Mohammad Waqas Khan briefed the minister on the Chamber’s working mechanism, key activities and major achievements. Former ICCI presidents, members of the Executive Committee and a large number of Chamber members were also present on the occasion.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026