ISLAMABAD: The Ministry of Religious Affairs has launched the second phase of applications for the government Hajj scheme, following the receipt of fewer submissions than expected in the first round.
Official data shows that 60.3% of the quota has been filled so far, with 71,286 registered pilgrims applying at designated banks over the past six days. Out of the total 118,210 seats available, 46,924 remain vacant.
Authorities said applications will close immediately once the quota is reached. Pilgrims have until August 16 to submit their applications along with the first installment — Rs 500,000 for the long Hajj package and Rs 550,000 for the short package.
Overseas Pakistanis are also eligible to apply through close relatives in Pakistan, provided they submit a medical fitness certificate upon returning to the country.
Earlier, In a significant relief for thousands of Pakistani pilgrims who were unable to perform Hajj in 2025, the Ministry of Religious Affairs has announced that these individuals will be allowed to perform Hajj in 2026 without any additional charges. The announcement follows weeks of uncertainty for over 26,000 pilgrims who had paid in full but could not proceed due to booking issues.
Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousaf confirmed the development, calling it a “welcome and just step” for pilgrims who had deposited their dues but were let down by administrative failures. “There is good news for all those who missed the opportunity. They will not need to pay anything extra next year,” the minister stated.
The Ministry further revealed that private Hajj operators, who were responsible for the failed bookings, have assured the government that all affected pilgrims will be accommodated under the same package and price for Hajj 2026.
Incomplete Bookings and Financial Safeguards
According to official sources, private Hajj operators were allocated 63,000 slots for Hajj 2025 but failed to fully utilize their quota. Around 26,000 Pakistani pilgrims were affected, despite having paid in full. The total amount collected—estimated at 490 million Saudi Riyals—is currently held in Saudi Arabia’s e-wallet system, ensuring the funds are secure.
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