ISLAMABAD (Kashmir English): Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousuf has announced that for the first time pilgrims will be able to choose their preferred Hajj year in advance under a four-year Hajj registration and waiting list system.
Addressing a press conference here on Wednesday, the minister said pilgrims would now be able to register for the Hajj year of their choice, by depositing an estimated 10% of the Hajj expenses at the time of registration.
He told journalists that the four-year Hajj Policy (2027–2030) is aimed at ensuring transparent and digital governance, accountability, merit and improved logistical facilities for pilgrims. “This is not only a policy but the beginning of fundamental and lasting reforms in Hajj arrangements,” he added.
Yousuf said three to four-year contracts could be signed for accommodation, transport, catering, air travel and cargo services, which would improve the quality of facilities while reducing costs.
He said all stages of the Hajj process — from registration to grievance redressal and post-Hajj review — would be carried out through a completely digital system.
Sharing details of the quota system, the minister said the quota for the government and private Hajj schemes would remain at 60% and 40% respectively, from 2027 to 2030, unless revised by the federal cabinet.
He said the federal government would gradually transition to the role of a regulator, monitor and quality assurer, rather than directly managing Hajj arrangements.
Regarding selection process, the minister said pilgrims would be selected on a “first come, first served” basis through a fully transparent digital waiting list.
He further said that multiple Hajj packages of varying durations would be offered under the Government Hajj Scheme, enabling pilgrims to choose according to their needs and convenience.
He said the government would award all procurement and contracts transparently in accordance with government procurement rules in both Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.
The minister further said that remaining funds after the completion of Hajj operations, if any, would be refunded to the pilgrims.
Public and private Hajj arrangements
The minister said both public and private Hajj arrangements would be reviewed impartially by an independent third party to further improve the quality of services.
He told media that the registration and monitoring of private Hajj companies would be based on their performance and compliance with prescribed service standards rather than quota allocation alone.
