The Government of Pakistan has officially announced the Hajj Policy 2026, bringing key changes in the quota distribution between government and private Hajj organizers. The announcement was made by Federal Minister for Religious Affairs, Sardar Muhammad Yousaf, in a press conference held in Islamabad.
According to the new policy, the government Hajj quota has been increased to 66.52%, while the private organizers’ quota has been reduced to 33.48%. This change, approved by Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif during a federal cabinet meeting, comes in response to the underutilization of quotas by private tour operators in the previous Hajj season.
Hajj Policy 2026: New Rules Approved by the Federal Cabinet
Starting August 4, 2025, applications under the government Hajj scheme can be submitted through designated banks along with the first installment. The Hajj Policy outlines two plans under the government scheme—one lasting 38 to 42 days and the other 20 to 25 days. Costs for these plans are expected to range between PKR 1.15 million and PKR 1.25 million, payable in two installments.
Pakistan currently holds a Hajj quota of 179,210 pilgrims, but based on the 2023 census, it has requested an increased quota of 230,000 pilgrims from Saudi Arabia. As per the current quota, 119,210 pilgrims will go under the government scheme, and 60,000 under private organizers.
To be eligible, applicants must be Pakistani Muslims with a valid passport until November 26, 2026. Children under the age of 12 will not be allowed to perform Hajj. Selection will be made on a first-come, first-served basis, with priority given to those who registered earlier in July.
Additionally, the “Road to Makkah” initiative will continue from Karachi and Islamabad airports, offering ease in immigration processes for pilgrims. The government also confirmed that private Hajj organizers have agreed to prioritize leftover pilgrims from last year, offering them packages at last year’s rates.
Sardar Muhammad Yousaf also clarified that although 63,000 people were expected to miss Hajj last year, the actual number was closer to 27,000. Refunds have been processed for many, and others are still receiving payments.
FAQs
1. When do Hajj 2026 applications start?
Applications will be accepted from August 4, 2025, at approved banks.
2. What is the government and private Hajj quota?
The government quota is 66.52%, while the private quota is 33.48%.
3. What are the eligibility requirements?
Applicants must be Pakistani Muslims with a passport valid until November 26, 2026, and above 12 years old.
4. How much will the government Hajj scheme cost?
The estimated cost ranges between PKR 1.15 million and 1.25 million, depending on the chosen plan.
5. What is the Road to Makkah initiative?
It’s a pre-clearance facility at Karachi and Islamabad airports to make travel smoother and faster for pilgrims.
