ISLAMABAD: The Ministry of Religious Affairs has decided to launch a mandatory training program for Hajj pilgrims starting January 1, aiming to better prepare travelers for religious and administrative requirements ahead of the pilgrimage. The decision was taken during a meeting of the Nisab Committee for Hajj Training held at the ministry’s headquarters in Islamabad.
According to officials, participation in the one-day training program has been declared compulsory for all registered pilgrims. The ministry emphasized that attendance will not be optional, as the sessions are designed to ensure pilgrims fully understand Hajj rituals, logistical procedures, and administrative responsibilities. As a result, authorities expect the initiative to reduce confusion and enhance compliance during the pilgrimage.
Training Schedule and Digital Communication
The Ministry of Religious Affairs stated that detailed information regarding the training schedule will be shared through multiple platforms. These include the Pak-Hajj 2025 mobile application, the ministry’s official website, and SMS alerts sent directly to pilgrims. Consequently, officials urged pilgrims to regularly check these channels to avoid missing important updates.
Moreover, the ministry confirmed that experienced Haji camp officials, master trainers, and qualified religious scholars will conduct the sessions. The training will rely on multimedia presentations to provide clear guidance on rituals, safety measures, and administrative processes. Therefore, authorities believe that the structured approach will help pilgrims perform Hajj with confidence and discipline.
Saudi Health Conditions and Enforcement Measures
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Religious Affairs also highlighted newly enforced medical conditions for Hajj 2026, issued in line with guidelines from the Saudi Ministry of Health. The Saudi government has imposed a complete ban on ailing pilgrims, a move that significantly tightens health screening requirements.
According to officials, individuals suffering from kidney failure or undergoing dialysis will not be permitted to perform Hajj in 2026. In addition, pilgrims with lung or liver diseases will face restrictions. Authorities further clarified that people with severe neurological or psychiatric illnesses, memory loss, or other chronic conditions will also be barred.
Pregnant women, as well as those suffering from whooping cough, tuberculosis, viral hemorrhagic fever, or cancer, will not be allowed to undertake the pilgrimage. Furthermore, the ministry warned that ailing pilgrims may face deportation from Saudi Arabia, with all related expenses borne by the individuals themselves.
The ministry also announced that legal action will be initiated against doctors who issue fitness certificates to medically unfit pilgrims. Medical officers will have the authority to stop pilgrims from traveling before departure, while Saudi monitoring teams will verify the authenticity of medical documents. Ultimately, only individuals meeting basic health standards will be allowed to perform Hajj.
