Pakistan announces major Umrah policy changes for pilgrims

The new Umrah policy changes are aimed at improving transparency and protecting pilgrims from fraud.

The Ministry of Religious Affairs announced the new rules under the Hajj and Umrah Act 2024.

Officials said the updated Pakistan Umrah policy gives the ministry full authority to regulate Umrah services and improve monitoring of travel companies.

Under the revised rules, only ministry-approved companies will be allowed to offer Umrah packages.

Authorities said these Umrah policy changes are designed to ensure that Umrah pilgrims receive safe, reliable, and properly regulated services.

To oversee the implementation of the new system, the government has formed an Umrah Policy Committee.

The committee will be headed by the Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Religious Affairs and will include representatives from the Ministries of Interior, Foreign Affairs, Law, and the Cabinet Division.

As part of the Pakistan Umrah policy, the ministry will publish a list of approved Umrah operators on its official website.

Officials have urged Umrah pilgrims to choose only these authorized companies when booking their travel.

The ministry also warned that anyone using unregistered operators will do so at their own risk.

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It said complaints will only be accepted against officially approved companies, making the Umrah policy changes more effective in protecting travelers.

In addition, pilgrims have been advised to make payments only through formal banking channels and keep receipts, agreements, and other important documents. Officials believe these steps will reduce fraud and improve accountability.

The ministry said the updated Pakistan Umrah policy is intended to strengthen oversight, safeguard the rights of Umrah pilgrims, and eliminate illegal operators from the Umrah travel sector.