The Ministry of Religious Affairs has warned pilgrims planning to perform Hajj in 2027 under the private scheme against making cash payments to agents, individuals or private Hajj operators.
The ministry said all Hajj-related payments must be made through officially designated digital payment channels to ensure that transactions are properly recorded and monitored.
Pilgrims can make payments through the government’s Hajj Management System or the Pak Hajj App, according to the ministry.
The ministry said the digital payment system was intended to protect pilgrims from fraud, deception and financial losses, while also improving transparency in the dealings of private Hajj operators.
Prospective pilgrims have been advised not to hand over money to unauthorised individuals or agents outside the prescribed procedure. They have also been urged to verify that private Hajj operators are officially licensed by the government before making bookings or payments.
Pakistan’s total Hajj quota for 2027 has been set at 179,210 pilgrims. Of these, 71,684 pilgrims will be permitted to perform Hajj under the private scheme, while the remaining pilgrims will travel under the government scheme.
The ministry has urged applicants to follow official instructions carefully and verify the credentials of operators before entering into any financial arrangements.
The warning comes as thousands of Pakistani Muslims prepare for the annual pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia, where pilgrims from around the world gather to perform the religious rites of Hajj.
Authorities have repeatedly stressed the importance of using authorised channels when making Hajj arrangements, particularly under private schemes where pilgrims deal with licensed operators for travel and accommodation services.
