Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousaf has unveiled Pakistan’s four-year Hajj policy, describing it as the beginning of long-term and fundamental reforms in Hajj arrangements.
He said the policy reflected Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s special guidance and aimed to improve Hajj arrangements through technology, transparency and practical planning.
“Following the prime minister’s directions, we have introduced a comprehensive and workable Hajj policy based on technology and transparency,” Yousaf said.
He added that the four-year policy would bring Pakistan’s Hajj arrangements in line with international standards. For the first time, the government will introduce a registration system and a waiting list for Hajj applicants.
Yousaf said the government would maintain the existing quota of 60 per cent for the government Hajj scheme and 40 per cent for private Hajj operators. The Ministry of Religious Affairs will oversee and regulate both schemes.
He said applicants would be able to register for Hajj by paying 10 per cent of the total cost. The government will conduct all purchases in Pakistan and Saudi Arabia through transparent procedures. It will also return any remaining amount to pilgrims after settling all expenses.
The minister said the government would register and monitor private Hajj companies based on their performance rather than only their allocated quota.
“We are introducing a digital complaint system and an appeal mechanism to ensure the quick resolution of pilgrims’ concerns,” he said.
He added that the government would also make Hajj training more effective and continue the Hujjaj Muhafiz Scheme.
Yousaf said the government had developed the new policy in line with Saudi Vision 2030. The policy, which will cover Hajj arrangements from 2027 to 2030, will mark a new phase in Pakistan’s Hajj management.
“Our responsibility is not limited to making arrangements. We also aim to provide pilgrims with a dignified and comfortable journey,” he said.
The estimated Hajj package will cost between Rs1.2 million and Rs1.3 million. Only the federal cabinet can increase or reduce the Hajj quota.
Yousaf said Pakistan had received awards for its Hajj arrangements, but the federal cabinet now holds the authority to decide the country’s Hajj quota.
