The Ministry of Religious Affairs has officially opened applications for the 2026 private Hajj scheme, providing an opportunity for 37,903 new pilgrims to apply for the sacred journey to Saudi Arabia.
In addition, 22,097 pilgrims who missed out on last year’s private Hajj will be given priority by private Hajj operators, ensuring that their long-awaited pilgrimage can finally be fulfilled.
Priority will be extended to pilgrims deferred from the previous year. Private Hajj operators are required to accommodate these registered individuals first before considering fresh applicants.
An affidavit confirming the completion of last year’s registrations must be provided by operators, ensuring that no deferred pilgrim is overlooked. This step ensures fairness and transparency in the allocation process, giving priority to those who have been waiting patiently.
The total quota for private Hajj operators has been set at 60,000 pilgrims, which includes both the 22,097 previously deferred pilgrims and 37,903 new applicants. The ministry confirmed that this allocation will allow private operators to manage the pilgrimage efficiently while adhering to set limits.
Earlier, the government Hajj scheme for 2026 also saw overwhelming demand, with 118,060 pilgrims submitting applications. The process, which opened on August 23, closed after just 17 days due to the high response, leaving many applicants hoping for the private Hajj scheme.
Applications under the government scheme were received online as well as through designated banks, and applicants paid half of the total Hajj expenses as the first installment, with the remaining amount to be collected later.
Pilgrims have the option to select either short-duration or long-duration Hajj packages, depending on their preferences. The Ministry of Religious Affairs emphasized that private Hajj operators must comply with all guidelines while processing applications, ensuring a smooth and organized journey for all selected pilgrims.
With this dual approach—government and private schemes—thousands of aspiring pilgrims will now have a chance to perform Hajj in 2026.
