Religious Affairs Committee chairman comments on why Uzbekistan not using full Hajj quota 

In an interview on the sidelines of an international conference in Tashkent on October 15, Toshboyev addressed questions about why the full quota has not been used. He explained that Uzbekistan needs to ensure full organizational readiness before expanding the number of pilgrims.

“This will happen gradually. Initially, our Hajj quota was just 3,000. It increased to 5,200, then to 7,200, and now, for three consecutive years, we have maintained a quota of 15,000. We are slowly raising it,” said Toshboyev.

He emphasized that the country must be fully prepared in terms of logistics, including accommodations, transport, and other necessary arrangements, before increasing the number of pilgrims. Toshboyev also noted that difficulties in securing slots for flights and other challenges have influenced the current limit.

“We must address the logistical complexities first. If we fail to provide quality services, it could damage Uzbekistan’s reputation globally. That’s why we’re increasing the quota gradually,” Toshboyev stated.

When asked about the possibility of transferring Hajj organization responsibilities to tour companies, Toshboyev noted that this might be considered in the future. However, he pointed out that, for now, the Saudi government prefers to work exclusively with state entities on Hajj matters.

“The Saudi authorities are currently focused on working directly with governments regarding the Hajj. While this may change in the future, for now, only the Religious Affairs Committee in collaboration with the Muslim Board of Uzbekistan is authorized to handle Hajj services,” he said.

In September 2022, Uzbekistan's President Shavkat Mirziyoyev met with Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah, to agree on increasing Uzbekistan’s Hajj quota to 24,000 pilgrims annually. However, the full quota has not been utilized over the past two years, and the remaining 9,000 slots were not distributed to tour companies.