Cabinet Clears Hajj Plan 2027-2030
The federal cabinet has approved Pakistan’s first four-year Hajj Policy and Plan for 2027 to 2030. The new policy introduces long-term planning, continuous registration, a Shariah-compliant savings scheme, and a fully digital Hajj management system.
The approval was given during a cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in Islamabad. Cabinet members were briefed on the key features of the new policy and its expected impact on pilgrims.
Unlike previous one-year Hajj policies, the new framework will cover four years. Officials said this will improve planning, management, and service delivery for Pakistani pilgrims.
Continuous Registration and Islamic Savings Plan
Under the new policy, intending pilgrims will be able to register for Hajj at any time until 2030. They will not need to wait for annual registration. A priority waiting list will be prepared based on these registrations.
The policy also introduces a Shariah-compliant savings scheme. This will allow citizens to save money through an Islamic savings plan for their future Hajj journey.
Officials said Standard Operating Procedures and other regulations will be prepared for the policy’s implementation. The policy may also be amended when required to remain aligned with Saudi laws and regulations.
Digital Hajj System and Better Accountability
The cabinet was informed that the entire Hajj management system will be digitised. This will include payment systems, complaint handling, and monitoring mechanisms.
A digital complaint management system will be introduced to improve transparency. Digital monitoring will also help strengthen service delivery and reduce mismanagement.
The policy allocates separate quotas for government and private Hajj schemes. It also introduces both long-duration and short-duration Hajj programmes.
Mandatory pilgrim training, Takaful arrangements, and emergency response systems will also become part of the Hajj framework.
The cabinet directed that Hajj Muavineen be appointed through a transparent and merit-based process. It also called for third-party validation of government and private Hajj operations to ensure accountability and quality.
The cabinet appreciated Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousaf and his ministry’s team for their arrangements during this year’s Hajj.
