Islamabad: An important meeting was held under the chairmanship of Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousuf regarding the Private Hajj Scheme, which was attended by dependent Hajj companies and HOPE central and zonal officials. The meeting reviewed the arrangements for the Private Hajj Scheme 2026 and the progress made so far.
Officials said in the meeting that so far, 40,000 Hajj pilgrims have been booked under the private scheme, while the quota is set at 60,000. Under the Hajj Policy 2026 approved by the federal cabinet, it has been made mandatory to complete the registration of private Hajj pilgrims by October 17.
Federal Minister Sardar Muhammad Yousuf directed all dependent Hajj companies to complete the bookings of the remaining 20,000 pilgrims in the next seven days. He also directed the relevant companies to run awareness campaigns so that all bookings can be made on time as per the fixed quota.
On the other hand, the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has announced that now people holding personal, family, e-tourist, work, transit and other types of visas will also be able to perform Umrah rituals.
According to the ministry, the Nasik Umrah platform has been introduced under the new system, through which pilgrims can obtain electronic Umrah permits by choosing online packages. This platform will provide pilgrims with the freedom to choose the date, time and services according to their convenience.
According to the announcement, this initiative will not only increase the convenience of Umrah pilgrims but will also raise the standard of services in the Hajj and Umrah sector. The Saudi government aims to provide modern facilities and a comfortable environment to Muslims coming from all over the world so that their faith-building journey can be more blessed and memorable.
