Pakistan has unveiled a new multi-year Hajj Policy 2027 to 2030. It is designed to make the pilgrimage more affordable and transparent.
The Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony released the 16-page framework focusing on better planning and improved services for pilgrims over the next four years. These longer agreements are meant to stabilise costs and reduce yearly fluctuations in Hajj expenses.
Majorly, the Hajj 2027 policy states that the government’s plan to sign three to four year contracts in Saudi Arabia cover air travel, accommodation, transport and catering. The policy also shifts to a fully digital financial system, ending paper based cash transactions, with all payments now taking place through the State Bank of Pakistan and integrated digital platforms to improve transparency.
The policy also brings social changes, allowing women to perform Hajj without a male guardian (Mahram) if they submit the required undertaking.
Moreover, a multi-year registration system and Hajj Savings Scheme have been introduced. This allows the pilgrims to deposit 10% of the estimated cost to secure priority registration for their preferred travel year, on a first come, first-served basis.
Packages for Government sponsored pilgrims
- a standard 38 to 42 day package
- a shorter 20 to 25 day package
Any leftover operational funds after Hajj will be refunded directly to pilgrims.
Regulations for private Hajj operators
- Buying, selling or subletting Hajj quotas is now banned
- Operators must register with the SECP and use the official Private Hajj Management Portal
- 5% performance guarantee is required for a three year license
However, operators failing to meet the 2,000 pilgrim minimum quota will lose their license and half their deposit.
Additionally, a new Hujjaj Muhafiz insurance scheme, funded by a non-refundable fee of Rs1,000 will provide Rs2 million to the families of pilgrims who die during Hajj and Rs250,000 for emergency medical evacuation. An Emergency Response Team will also be set up to handle emergencies. The federal minister will have the authority to update the policy whenever Saudi Arabia introduces new Hajj regulations.
Read more: Hajj 2027 registrations reach record 340,000
