In a major development for Pakistani pilgrims, the Hajj Policy 2026 has officially been announced by the Federal Minister for Religious Affairs, Sardar Muhammad Yousaf. Speaking at a press conference in Islamabad, he revealed that significant changes have been made in how Hajj quotas will be managed for the upcoming season.
One of the most notable shifts is in the quota distribution. The government Hajj quota has been increased from 50% to 66.52%, while the private Hajj organizers’ share has been reduced to 33.48%—a decrease of 16.5%. This decision was taken by Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif during a recent federal cabinet meeting, following complaints about mismanagement by some private operators in the previous year.
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As per the announcement, Hajj applications will begin from August 4, 2025, and can be submitted through designated banks. The total Hajj quota currently assigned to Pakistan is 179,210 pilgrims, although a request has been made to Saudi Arabia to increase it to 230,000 based on Pakistan’s new population data from the 2023 census.
The government scheme will accommodate 119,210 pilgrims, and 60,000 pilgrims will travel via private organizers. Hajj will be offered under two government plans: a long plan (38 to 42 days) and a short plan (20 to 25 days). The cost is expected to range from PKR 1.15 to 1.25 million, and the amount will be collected in two installments.
Eligibility criteria include being a Pakistani Muslim with a valid passport until November 26, 2026. Children under 12 years will not be allowed. Selection will be made on a first-come, first-served basis, with priority given to those who pre-registered in July.
The “Road to Makkah” project will continue to facilitate pilgrims at Karachi and Islamabad airports, helping them with immigration processes before departure. Private Hajj operators have also agreed to prioritize last year’s leftover pilgrims, offering them packages at the previous year’s rates.
The government confirmed that the number of pilgrims left behind last year was around 27,000, not 63,000 as previously claimed. Many of them have been refunded, while others are still receiving their dues.
FAQs
1. When can I apply for Hajj 2026?
Applications will be accepted from August 4, 2025, at approved banks.
2. What is the new quota distribution for Hajj Policy 2026?
The government gets 66.52%, and private organizers get 33.48% of the total quota.
3. Who can apply for Hajj?
Any Pakistani Muslim with a valid passport till November 26, 2026, and above 12 years of age is eligible.
4. How much does the Hajj cost under the government scheme?
Estimated costs range from PKR 1.15 million to 1.25 million, depending on the plan selected.
5. What is the Road to Makkah project?
It’s an initiative that allows pilgrims to complete immigration procedures at Karachi and Islamabad airports, making the travel process smoother.
