Nearly 250,000 Pakistanis Register for Hajj 2026 as Initial Deadline Closes
Nearly 250,000 Pakistanis have completed their mandatory registration for Hajj 2026, as the first phase of the sign-up process officially concluded today (Wednesday), according to state media reports.
The Ministry of Religious Affairs launched this phase last month, giving prospective pilgrims the opportunity to register without any upfront payment until July 9. Registration was available online and through 15 designated banks nationwide.
✍️ Next Steps: Government or Private Hajj Schemes
Applicants who have successfully registered will soon be given the option to choose between the government-sponsored Hajj scheme and private operators, once the official Hajj 2026 policy is released. The policy will outline costs, eligibility requirements, and other conditions for both routes.
📈 High Public Interest Despite Challenges in 2025
The strong early response signals growing enthusiasm for next year’s pilgrimage, despite setbacks during Hajj 2025. Last year, private Hajj operators failed to utilize a substantial portion of their allotted quota, largely due to payment delays and logistical hurdles.
In 2025, Pakistan was allocated a quota of 179,210 pilgrims, divided equally between the government and private sectors. While the government successfully arranged travel for over 88,000 pilgrims, thousands under private operators were left without accommodations.
🌍 Overseas Pakistanis and Pending Applicants Included
The current registration also covers:
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Applicants who missed Hajj 2025 due to private operator failures
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Overseas Pakistanis intending to perform Hajj under the official schemes
These individuals can now be included in future balloting or allocation rounds based on the finalized policy.
📌 Stay Updated
Pilgrims are advised to stay connected with official announcements from the Ministry of Religious Affairs for updates regarding:
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Final Hajj policy and cost structure
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Selection process and balloting dates
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Training sessions and travel schedules
