Pakistan Approves First Long-Term Hajj Policy

Pakistan’s federal cabinet approved the country’s first four-year Hajj Policy and Plan for 2027-2030 on Tuesday, according to a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office.

The new framework will remove the requirement for intending pilgrims to register separately every year.

Pakistan usually announces a new Hajj policy annually. The policy explains how citizens can perform the pilgrimage through either the government scheme or licensed private tour operators.

However, the latest plan will remain in effect for four years. It is the first long-term Hajj policy introduced in the country.

Policy Aims to Improve Long-Term Planning

According to the Prime Minister’s Office, the policy will support long-term planning and improve operational efficiency.

It will also help the government provide better facilities to pilgrims.

Authorities will prepare standard operating procedures and additional regulations to implement the plan.

However, the government may amend the policy when necessary to keep it aligned with Saudi Arabia’s laws and regulations.

Pilgrims Will Register Only Once

Under the new system, aspiring pilgrims will not need to complete the registration process every year.

Instead, they will register once and select any preferred Hajj year up to 2030.

The government will then maintain a priority waiting list based on those registrations.

Shariah-Compliant Hajj Savings Scheme Planned

The government will also introduce a Shariah-compliant savings scheme for prospective pilgrims.

The scheme will allow participants to save gradually and arrange financing for their future Hajj expenses.

Meanwhile, officials informed the cabinet that Pakistan is digitizing the entire Hajj system.

The digital framework will include online payment mechanisms, a digital complaints management system, and electronic monitoring.

Government and Private Quotas Included

The four-year policy contains separate quotas for the government and private Hajj schemes.

It also introduces both long-duration and short-duration Hajj packages.

In addition, the plan includes mandatory training for pilgrims, Takaful arrangements and emergency response measures.

The cabinet also directed authorities to appoint Hajj assistants through a transparent and merit-based selection process.

Pakistan Begins Preparations for Hajj 2027

Hajj 2026 concluded in Saudi Arabia in May, with millions of Muslims taking part in the annual pilgrimage.

Saudi Arabia allocated Pakistan a total quota of 179,210 pilgrims under the government and private schemes.

Pakistan has already started preparations for Hajj 2027.

Last month, the government launched mandatory registration for people planning to perform the pilgrimage.

According to state broadcaster Radio Pakistan, around 250,000 citizens completed registration for Hajj 2027 within 15 days.