Pakistan Announces New Regulations for Umrah Service Providers

Pakistan’s Ministry of Religious Affairs has introduced a new regulatory framework for Umrah services to improve oversight, transparency, and the protection of pilgrims.

According to an official notification, only ministry-approved companies will be permitted to provide Umrah services under the Hajj and Umrah Act 2024. The new rules are intended to strengthen regulation of the Umrah sector and ensure that service providers meet official standards.

Umrah Policy Committee Established

To oversee the implementation of the new framework, the ministry has formed an Umrah Policy Committee.

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

Its responsibilities include developing, monitoring, and reviewing policies related to Umrah services.

Pilgrims Advised to Use Approved Operators

The ministry said a list of authorized Umrah operators will be published on its official website, allowing prospective pilgrims to verify approved companies before making bookings.

Authorities have advised travelers to arrange their Umrah packages only through registered operators. They also noted that complaints regarding Umrah services will be processed only if they involve officially approved companies.

Guidance for Safe Bookings

The notification encourages pilgrims to make all payments through formal banking channels and to retain receipts, contracts, and other relevant documents for their records.