Govt extends Hajj registration deadline amid devastating floods

The Ministry of Religious Affairs has extended the registration deadline for Hajj pilgrims under the private scheme, citing disruptions caused by recent floods.

According to ministry officials, the registration process will continue through the official online portal, beyond the earlier deadline of September 8.

So far, more than 21,000 pilgrims have registered successfully. Officials confirmed that private Hajj operators are required to give priority to individuals who were unable to perform the pilgrimage last year despite completing the formalities.

Operators will also be permitted to accept new applications against any unutilised quota.

Those who submitted their deposits last year but could not travel will be allowed to perform Hajj in 2025 without incurring additional charges. Private operators are bound to facilitate them at the previously agreed rates.

However, individuals who withdrew their deposits following last year’s cancellations will not be eligible to benefit from the old package terms.