Pakistan sets deadline as private Hajj 2027 bookings move online

Deadline announced for private pilgrims

Pakistan’s Ministry of Religious Affairs has fixed Nov 20 as the final date for pilgrims to choose and pay for private Hajj packages for 2027. The ministry warned that it can reallocate the unused quota if bookings are not completed by the deadline.

This is the first deadline for private Hajj operators under Pakistan’s new four-year Hajj policy. The policy was approved by the federal cabinet in July and will cover the Hajj seasons from 2027 to 2030.

Saudi Arabia has allocated 179,210 Hajj places to Pakistan for 2027. Of these, 107,526 seats are reserved for the government scheme, while 71,684 are available under the private scheme.

Pilgrims told to use official channels

The religious affairs ministry has advised private pilgrims to make their bookings and payments only through official digital platforms. “Private pilgrims should select and pay for their Hajj package only through the Hajj portal or the Pak Hajj app,” a ministry spokesperson said in a statement issued by MoRA.

The ministry also warned pilgrims about making payments outside the approved system. The spokesperson said the ministry “will not be responsible for any loss” if money is paid directly to an individual or a company.

Private Hajj packages offer more options

Sixteen basic packages have been approved for the private Hajj scheme. Their prices range from Rs1.4 million to Rs3.75 million, depending on the services and facilities included.

The ministry said most Hajj companies have already uploaded their packages to the official digital portal. It added that bookings through the Hajj portal and Pak Hajj app have increased following the launch of the system.

Private packages are designed to provide greater flexibility for pilgrims. Options include shorter stays, direct flights from locations outside Pakistan and five-star hotel accommodation.

Government tightens checks after past problems

The ministry has increased its monitoring of private Hajj operators since 2025. That year, Pakistan’s private Hajj quota dropped from 89,801 places to slightly more than 25,000 after operators failed to meet Saudi payment and service agreement deadlines.

As a result, more than 67,000 intending pilgrims were unable to travel for Hajj. The ministry’s stronger oversight is aimed at preventing similar problems and ensuring that operators complete their required arrangements on time.

Meanwhile, more than 13,000 pilgrims have deposited Rs8.7 billion for Hajj 2027 under the government scheme. The government scheme began accepting applications last month, according to the Ministry of Religious Affairs.

The Nov 20 deadline gives private pilgrims a clear time limit to complete their Hajj arrangements. The ministry’s warning about official payment channels is also important because it can help reduce the risk of financial losses and fraud.

The government appears to be taking stricter action after problems faced by private operators in 2025. With thousands of pilgrims already preparing for Hajj 2027, timely payments and proper arrangements will be important for a smooth pilgrimage.

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