The Ministry of Religious Affairs has decided to introduce a new digital system for private Hajj operations in 2027, following Saudi Arabia’s Nusuk Masar system.
Under the new system, pilgrims will no longer book private Hajj packages directly through private operators. Instead, the Ministry of Religious Affairs will handle the booking process through its official platform.
For the first time, the ministry will directly oversee private Hajj operations alongside the government Hajj scheme.
According to sources, the ministry will manage the private Hajj scheme through the official Pak Hajj app. Pilgrims will use the digital platform for bookings and other Hajj-related arrangements.
The new system aims to make private Hajj operations more transparent and improve government oversight. Officials also expect it to help provide better facilities and services to pilgrims.
Also Read, Pakistan eyes one-bank model for govt and private hajj schemes
On the other hand, Pakistan is likely to introduce a major administrative change to the Hajj Scheme 2027 by authorising a single bank to receive Hajj applications instead of the 16 banks that previously handled the process. According to sources, the proposal is currently under review, and an official decision is expected soon.
If approved, both online and branch payments for the government and private Hajj schemes will be processed exclusively through Habib Bank, according to media reports. Pilgrims will be able to submit their applications and make payments through Habib Bank’s branches and digital banking system. All financial transactions related to both schemes will be handled by the bank. An agreement between the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Habib Bank is expected to be signed soon.