A review meeting was held under the chairmanship of Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousuf on the arrangements for the private Hajj scheme, in which dependent Hajj companies and Hope central and zonal officials participated. During the meeting, officials said that so far 40,000 pilgrims have been booked under the private Hajj scheme, while the quota is 60,000.
According to the Hajj Policy 2026 approved by the federal cabinet, the registration process of private pilgrims must be completed by October 17. Sardar Muhammad Yousuf directed the companies to complete the booking of the remaining 20,000 pilgrims in the next seven days and encourage pilgrims to register through an awareness campaign.
On this occasion, the Federal Minister clarified that the government is taking all necessary steps to bring transparency and ease in Hajj arrangements so that better facilities can be provided to Pakistani pilgrims.
On the other hand, the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has announced a major change in the Umrah visa policy. Now, people holding personal, family, e-tourist, work and transit visas will also be able to perform Umrah easily.
The ministry has launched a new Nasik Umrah platform through which pilgrims can choose online packages, apply for Umrah permits, and set the date and time as per their convenience.
According to the announcement, the Saudi government aims to provide pilgrims with modern facilities and a comfortable environment so that they have the best experience during their prayers at the two holy mosques.
