Pakistan unveils four-year Hajj policy
The government has introduced a four-year Hajj policy covering arrangements from 2027 to 2030.
Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousaf presented the policy on Wednesday. He described it as a major step toward improving and modernising Hajj arrangements in Pakistan.
Speaking at a briefing, the minister said this was the first time the government had introduced a four-year Hajj policy. He said the initiative would provide a long-term framework for organising the pilgrimage.
Yousaf said the policy had been prepared under the guidance of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. It focuses on technology, transparency and improved services for pilgrims.
According to the minister, the new framework aims to bring Pakistan’s Hajj arrangements closer to international standards. It will also introduce several new facilities for pilgrims.
For the first time, applicants will have access to a registration and waiting-list system. The government expects the system to make the process more organised and transparent.
The minister said the government and private Hajj schemes would retain their existing quota division. Sixty per cent of the quota will remain with the government scheme, while private operators will receive 40 per cent.
The Ministry of Religious Affairs will continue to oversee and regulate Hajj arrangements. It will also monitor the performance of private Hajj companies.
Under the new policy, applicants will be able to enter the pilgrims’ list after paying 10 per cent of the required amount.
The government has also planned greater transparency in procurement. Purchases made in Pakistan and Saudi Arabia will be carried out through transparent procedures.
Yousaf said any money remaining after meeting the required expenses would be returned to the pilgrims. The measure is aimed at improving financial transparency and protecting the interests of Hajj applicants.
The government also plans to change the way private Hajj companies are monitored. Their registration and oversight will not depend only on the quota allocated to them.
Instead, their performance will be an important factor in determining their registration and continued participation in the Hajj programme.
A digital complaint-resolution system is also being introduced. Pilgrims will be able to submit complaints and seek quick action through the new system.
An appeal mechanism will also be established. This will provide pilgrims with another channel to challenge decisions or seek resolution of their complaints.
The minister said the government would also improve training programmes for Hajj pilgrims. The aim is to prepare pilgrims more effectively before their departure for Saudi Arabia.
The Hajj Muhafiz Scheme will continue under the new policy. The government considers the scheme an important part of its arrangements for pilgrims.
Yousaf said the new policy had been developed in line with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. The framework is intended to improve coordination and service delivery during the pilgrimage.
The minister said the government’s objective was not limited to managing logistical arrangements. It also wanted to ensure that Pakistani pilgrims received a dignified and comfortable Hajj experience.
The estimated cost of the government Hajj package is expected to remain between Rs1.2 million and Rs1.3 million.
However, the final cost may depend on various arrangements and expenses associated with the pilgrimage.
Yousaf also clarified that any increase or decrease in Pakistan’s Hajj quota would require a decision from the federal cabinet.
He said Pakistan had received recognition and awards for its Hajj arrangements in the past. The government now wants to further improve the system through long-term planning and greater use of technology.
The four-year policy is expected to provide greater continuity in Hajj preparations. Officials believe the long-term framework will also make planning easier for both the government and pilgrims.
