Sabri Al-Buaishi, Deputy Head of the General Authority for Hajj and Umrah, announced that the authority has submitted its budget and cost estimates for the upcoming Hajj season to the Head of the Libyan Government of National Unity (GNU), Abdel-Hamid Dbaiba.
Speaking to Libya Al-Ahrar, Al-Buaishi revealed that the cost of performing Hajj for the 1446 Hijri season is expected to be approximately $9,000. He also confirmed that a lottery will be conducted to select eligible pilgrims before the beginning of Ramadan.
The announcement comes as Libyan authorities prepare to facilitate this year’s pilgrimage amidst economic challenges and rising costs globally. The estimated cost includes travel expenses, accommodation, and other related services for Libyan pilgrims performing the sacred Islamic ritual.
Libya has been in chaos since a NATO-backed uprising toppled longtime leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. The county has for years been split between rival administrations.
Libya’s economy, heavily reliant on oil, has suffered due to the ongoing conflict. The instability has led to fluctuations in oil production and prices, impacting the global oil market and Libya’s economy.
The conflict has led to a significant humanitarian crisis in Libya, with thousands of people killed, and many more displaced. Migrants and refugees using Libya as a transit point to Europe have also faced dire conditions.
The planned elections for December 2021 were delayed due to disagreements over election laws and the eligibility of certain candidates. This delay has raised concerns about the feasibility of a peaceful political transition.
Despite the ceasefire, security remains a significant concern with sporadic fighting and the presence of mercenaries and foreign fighters. The unification of the military and the removal of foreign forces are crucial challenges.
