Hyderabad: In a significant development for Haj pilgrims, MLC Amer Ali Khan has successfully facilitated an increase in the number of Rubaat seats, ensuring more pilgrims from the erstwhile Nizam-ruled Hyderabad State can avail free accommodation during their pilgrimage to Makkah.
During his recent visit to Saudi Arabia, Amer Ali Khan held key meetings with Hussain Al Shareef, the Naazir of Rubaat, to address the allocation of free accommodation for pilgrims. As a result of these discussions, the number of Rubaat seats under the Azizia category has been increased from 543 last year to 710 for the Haj season of 2025.
Of the 710 seats, 45 have been earmarked exclusively for pilgrims from the territories that once formed part of the Hyderabad State, including Telangana, Karnataka, and Maharashtra. The district-wise allocation includes Telangana’s 33 districts, Karnataka’s four districts, and Maharashtra’s eight districts.
Expressing gratitude to Hussain Al Shareef for his cooperation, Amer Ali Khan highlighted the financial benefits for pilgrims. “This increase in Rubaat seats will significantly reduce the financial burden on pilgrims. By availing free accommodation in Makkah, each pilgrim stands to save approximately Rs 50,000,” he stated.
The Rubaat buildings, managed by the authorities in Saudi Arabia, have historically provided free lodging to pilgrims from regions formerly under the Nizam’s rule. The increase in seats reflects efforts to support more pilgrims and uphold the Rubaat’s longstanding commitment to facilitating affordable pilgrimages.
The initiative is expected to benefit hundreds of Haj pilgrims, ensuring their journey to the holy city is more accessible and financially manageable.
