The Ministry of Religious Affairs has introduced several new features on the Pak Hajj App to facilitate Hajj pilgrims. According to a notification issued by the ministry, pilgrims can now modify their package duration and accommodation arrangements from the comfort of their homes.
Pilgrims can remotely select from two-bed, three-bed, family-room, or shared accommodation options. They can also switch between long and short Hajj packages without having to visit a ministry office. The process of printing medical fitness certificates through the Pak Hajj App and having them verified by authorised doctors is currently underway.
Once the fitness certificate has been verified, pilgrims must re-upload it to the Pak Hajj App or the Hajj portal. Overseas Pakistanis are also required to obtain a fitness certificate from a doctor near their residence and upload it to the app.
According to the notification, successful Hajj applicants will also be able to apply for a Mahram (male guardian) or a helper under the hardship quota. A new feature has also been introduced, allowing pilgrims to cancel their Hajj applications and receive a refund of the applicable fee in unavoidable circumstances.
The ministry said that private Hajj bookings are also being processed through the National IT Board’s digital Hajj portal. It warned that booking or making payments for private Hajj outside the official Hajj portal is prohibited. Under the private Hajj scheme, 26,000 applications have so far been completed, while 45,000 slots remain available.