Private Hajj bookings reach 11,600 as 60,000 seats remain
11,600 pilgrims complete bookings
According to the Ministry of Religious Affairs, bookings for 11,600 pilgrims have been completed under the private Hajj scheme.
The bookings have been processed through the official Hajj Portal. Around 60,000 seats are still available, meaning a large number of places remain open for people planning to perform Hajj under the private scheme.
The ministry said bookings will continue until November 20, subject to the availability of seats. Pilgrims planning to travel under the private scheme have therefore been advised to complete their arrangements before the deadline.
25 Hajj organisers offering packages
The ministry said 25 registered Hajj organisers are offering packages through the official portal.
These organisers are providing different options for pilgrims, including economy, standard and premium packages. The package system allows intending pilgrims to choose arrangements according to their requirements.
The different categories may vary in terms of accommodation, travel arrangements and other services included in the Hajj packages. Pilgrims have been advised to carefully review the details of their selected package before making any payment.
Rs10 billion received in dues
The ministry spokesperson said Rs10 billion had been received in dues in the accounts of 25 Hajj organisers. The amount represents payments received in connection with private Hajj arrangements. More than Rs4 billion had also been deposited online through the official Hajj Portal.
The portal was developed by the National Information Technology Board (NITB) to support the digital management of Hajj-related arrangements. The online payment system is intended to make transactions easier to track and provide pilgrims with an official channel for completing their payments.
Pilgrims warned against unofficial payments
The Ministry of Religious Affairs has strongly advised pilgrims not to deposit Hajj payments directly with unauthorised individuals or companies.
Instead, intending pilgrims should use the official Pak Hajj App or Hajj Portal for their transactions. The ministry has stressed the importance of using approved channels for all Hajj-related payments.
The warning is particularly important because pilgrims may face financial losses if they transfer money to people or companies that are not authorised to collect Hajj payments. Pilgrims should therefore confirm the details of their selected Hajj organiser and payment method before transferring any money.
Hajj Portal simplifies booking process
The official Hajj Portal has become an important part of the private Hajj booking process.
Through the digital platform, pilgrims can access information about packages offered by registered Hajj organisers. The system also provides a way to manage bookings and payments through an official channel.
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Digital processing can make it easier for authorities to keep records of transactions and monitor the progress of bookings. For pilgrims, the system provides a central platform where they can complete important parts of the booking process.
Economy, standard and premium options
The private Hajj scheme offers three broad categories of packages: economy, standard and premium.
These options are designed to meet the needs of pilgrims with different preferences. Economy packages may appeal to those seeking more affordable arrangements, while standard and premium options can offer additional services and facilities.
The exact services and costs can differ between registered Hajj organisers. Pilgrims should therefore compare the package details available through the official system before making their final choice.
November 20 deadline
The ministry has said private Hajj bookings will continue until November 20.
However, bookings remain subject to the availability of seats. With around 60,000 seats still available, intending pilgrims have an opportunity to review the available packages and make their arrangements.
The ministry has advised people not to wait until the final stage of the booking period if they have already decided to perform Hajj under the private scheme. Completing the process earlier can also give pilgrims more time to review their documents and payment details.
Official channels remain important
The ministry’s repeated warning about official payment channels is a key part of the private Hajj arrangements.
Pilgrims should use the Pak Hajj App or Hajj Portal instead of making payments to unknown individuals. They should also keep receipts and other records related to their bookings and payments.
Any concerns about a Hajj package or organiser should be checked through the official system before money is transferred. The government’s digital approach is aimed at making the private Hajj process more organised and transparent.
