To ensure immediate and professional assistance for Pakistani pilgrims, Khudam Al-Hajjaj received training for the first time in line with international best practices, followed by Indonesia, Turkey, and Malaysia.
The Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony has completed the first phase of a 10-day modern training program for “Khudam Al-Hajjaj,” aiming to make Hajj 2026 the most convenient and well-managed pilgrimage for Pakistani pilgrims.
Officials said the initiative marks a significant shift from traditional briefings to a more comprehensive and practical training model.
Khudam Al-Hajjaj equipped with digital maps
For the first time, Khudam Al-Hajjaj were equipped with digital maps prepared by the Survey of Pakistan to help them guide pilgrims effectively through smartphones and digital presentations.
In addition, life-saving skills and emergency response training were provided by Rescue 1122, while crowd management modules were developed in collaboration with Islamabad Police.
The objective of the training is to ensure immediate and professional assistance to Pakistani pilgrims in case of any difficulty in Mecca, Medina, Mina, Muzdalifah, and Arafat during the Hajj.
Basic Arabic language exercises
To overcome language barriers, basic Arabic language exercises were also conducted with the cooperation of the Islamabad Police and the International Islamic University.
Coordinator Mecca and Khudam Al-Hajjaj Zulfiqar Khan said the training modules were developed after studying global standards. He noted that experts from the Survey of Pakistan were invited to train participants in digital map reading to ensure accurate guidance for pilgrims.
Mock exercises on CPR conducted
For the first time, mock exercises on CPR and emergency medical aid were conducted during the 10-day program by Rescue 1122.
The training has been divided into two phases: a common training phase, which has now been completed, and a “functional level” specialised training phase that will take place before the commencement of Hajj operations.
Officials expressed confidence that the enhanced preparation of Khudam Al-Hajjaj will significantly improve services for Pakistani pilgrims during Hajj 2026.
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