DUSHANBE, August 18, 2011, Asia-Plus - This year, just like last year, Saudi Arabian Ministry of Hajj is ready to accept 5.500 pilgrims from Tajikistan (including those several hundred persons who accompany pilgrims).

All pilgrims at the age from 18 to 80 are invited to perform Hajj, deputy head of the Tajik Government’s Committee on Religion Mavlon Mukhtorov told the AP.

This year’s price for pilgrimage has increased by $257 and makes $3.448.

“The growth was caused by the increase in prices for air fuel,” Mukhtorov has said. This package includes expenses for air ticket, hotel accommodation, food, purchase of sacrificial animal, medical aid.

This year’s conditions of stay in both Mecca and Medina will be much better, the source has said.

Hajj pilgrims will be transported to Holy places by Somon Air and TajikAir companies. The first group of pilgrims is expected to leave Tajikistan after October 10th.