MoU signed for digitalised Haj management system

ISLAMABAD: The religious affairs ministry and the information technology ministry on Tuesday signed a memorandum of understanding on the introduction of a digitalized Haj management system for transparency.

The signing of the MoU is a major milestone towards the end-to-end digital Haj 2027 initiative, which aims to make the process from the submission of applications to the return of pilgrims to Pakistan more streamlined.

The MoU signing ceremony was held in the federal capital and was attended by Federal Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony Sardar Muhammad Yousaf, Federal Minister for IT and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja, Religious Affairs Secretary Dr Sajid Mahmood Chauhan, and IT Secretary Zarrar Hasham Khan, along with other senior officials from the two ministries.

The MoU was signed by Haj Joint Secretary Muhammad Bakhsh Sangi and National IT Board Director General Dr Khalid Rafiq.

The move is part of efforts to bring transparency and efficiency in the Haj operations and to bring it at par with international standards.

The religious affairs minister said that the initiative was being taken on the special directives of the prime minister to make the whole process transparent, integrated, and convenient for the pilgrims.

The IT minister said that from next year, a comprehensive end-to-end digital system would be introduced, covering all stages from submission of applications to the pilgrims’ return home. She added that a simple and user-friendly online portal would be established to facilitate applicants through a unified digital platform.

Under the MoU, the Pak Haj mobile application would also be made more effective and easier to use, enabling pilgrims to receive timely information and guidance. The portal would ensure effective coordination among stakeholders and strict adherence to timelines set by the Saudi authorities.

Officials said the digital transformation was expected to bring greater transparency, efficiency and speed to Haj operations, while ensuring modern facilities for pilgrims undertaking the annual journey.