ISLAMABAD, Dec 2: The Ministry of Religious Affairs has selected 289 people for a scheme under which they will be sent to perform Haj with expenses to be borne by the United Arab Emirates government.

A press release issued by the ministry here on Tuesday said that as a gesture of goodwill the UAE government had provided funds for the Haj expenses of 289 deserving people.

The press release did not say how had the ministry selected the people.

According to sources, the people were chosen by district coordination officers and ministry’s officials from a list of applicants who sought government’s help for performing Haj.

Included among them are officials of the ministry, journalists and workers of the Pakistan People’s Party.

The UAE government has provided funds for air fare, accommodation and transportation of pilgrims. Besides, an amount of $600 will be given to each pilgrim at the time of departure.