Pakistan has approved its Hajj 2026 Pakistan policy in line with Saudi Arabia’s guidelines, aiming to ensure smooth, transparent and well-managed arrangements for pilgrims, Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousaf confirmed.
Under the approved plan, Pakistan’s Hajj quota for 2026 stands at 179,210 pilgrims. Of these, 120,000 will perform Hajj under the government scheme, while 60,000 seats have been allocated to private tour operators, offering wider choice and flexibility to intending pilgrims.
The minister said nationwide training sessions for pilgrims are already underway and attendance is mandatory. These sessions, being held across multiple districts, focus on rituals, health, discipline and travel procedures to help pilgrims perform Hajj with ease and confidence.
He highlighted the continued success of the Road to Makkah project, under which immigration procedures are completed in Pakistan. Around 38,000 pilgrims will depart from Islamabad under this facility in 2026. Currently operational in Islamabad and Karachi, the government plans to extend the service to Lahore to further reduce congestion and waiting times.
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Beyond Hajj, the ministry is also strengthening interfaith harmony and minority protection. The minister referred to incidents of vandalism reported during last year’s Christmas celebrations, stressing that such acts are unacceptable and that the state remains committed to safeguarding worship places and minority rights. He noted that scholarships, rehabilitation funds, job quotas, parliamentary representation and financial aid are being provided to support minority communities.
Additionally, a new centralized system has been introduced to manage pilgrimages of Zaireen travelling to holy sites in Iran and Iraq, improving coordination, security and overall safety.
The Hajj 2026 Pakistan measures reflect the government’s broader goal of efficient religious services while promoting unity, tolerance and community welfare nationwide.
