Pakistan unveils first four-year Hajj policy for 2027-2030

The federal government on Wednesday introduced Pakistan's first four-year Hajj Policy (2027-2030) with greater transparency, digital management and improved services for pilgrims.

Speaking at a press conference in Islamabad, Religious Affairs Minister Sardar Muhammad Yousuf said the policy marked the beginning of long-term reforms in Hajj arrangements.

Under the new policy, pilgrims will be able to register for their preferred Hajj year in advance through a four-year registration and waiting list system. Selection will be made on a first come, first served basis through a digital waiting list.

The minister said pilgrims would be required to deposit around 10 per cent of the estimated Hajj cost at the time of registration.

He said the government would sign longer-term contracts for accommodation, transport, catering, air travel and cargo services to improve facilities and reduce costs.

According to the policy, the entire Hajj process — from registration and payments to complaints and post-Hajj reviews — will be managed through a fully digital system.

Sardar Yousuf said the quota for the government and private Hajj schemes would remain at 60 per cent and 40 per cent, respectively, from 2027 to 2030 unless changed by the federal cabinet.

He added that the government's role would gradually shift from directly managing Hajj operations to regulating, monitoring and ensuring service quality, with greater participation by the private sector.

The policy also introduces multiple government Hajj packages of different durations, allowing pilgrims to choose an option that best suits their needs.

The minister said any unspent Hajj funds would be returned to pilgrims after the completion of Hajj operations.

All Hajj payments will be made through government-approved banking channels to ensure transparency, he added.