Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousaf says Pakistan plans major reforms for Hajj 2026
ISLAMABAD: (UrduPoint/Pakistan Point News-July 14th, 2025) Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousaf on Monday confirmed that the Saudi Arabia officially lifted the Mahram (male guardian) requirement for women pilgrims, allowing them to perform Hajj independently.
The announcement came during a meeting of the National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Religious Affairs, chaired by Aamir Dogar, where a comprehensive review of Hajj 2025 and upcoming plans was presented.
Minister Yousaf hailed Hajj 2025 as a resounding success, revealing that Pakistan received a prestigious Excellence Award from the Saudi government for the first time. “The arrangements made for Pakistani pilgrims were widely praised, and any complaints were resolved on the spot,” he said, adding that air-conditioned tents and enhanced facilities were provided at major pilgrimage sites, including Arafat, marking a significant upgrade in pilgrim welfare.
The committee was informed that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed that all future Hajj arrangements be made in line with Saudi guidelines. A new Hajj policy is being drafted, and committee members have been invited to provide suggestions.
Chairman Aamir Dogar praised the Ministry for organizing what he called “exemplary arrangements”, and emphasized that Hajj 2026 must be planned with equal excellence.
The minister also disclosed that while 67,000 private pilgrims initially remained without approval, a 10,000-person additional quota was later granted. However, 63,000 applicants still could not perform Hajj this year.
Regarding immigration, he said the Road to Makkah initiative — offering pre-departure immigration clearance — was available to pilgrims from Karachi and Islamabad, with efforts underway to extend it to Lahore, Peshawar, and Quetta next year. He added that Saudi Arabia released its new Hajj policy on 12th Dhul Hijjah, focusing on world-class services, and Pakistan is aligning its systems accordingly.
Committee member Asiya Tanoli praised the smooth execution of this year’s pilgrimage, saying, “Every pilgrim I’ve spoken to described it as one of the best Hajj experiences.”
Minister Yousaf further shared that over 455,000 people have registered for Hajj 2026 so far. While the current quota stands at 189,000, Pakistan has formally requested an increase to 255,000 pilgrims.
Committee member Shagufta Jumani asked whether those who missed Hajj this year would be prioritized next year, and when refunds for last year’s unaccommodated pilgrims would be processed. In response, the minister said SAR 365 million is currently deposited in Saudi Arabia. Pilgrims are free to request refunds but private Hajj operators have advised retaining the funds for future arrangements. He assured that those who paid this year would be given priority in the next Hajj.
When asked about reports of the Indian companies transporting Pakistani pilgrims, the minister categorically denied the involvement of any foreign company in handling Pakistani pilgrims.
Chairman Dogar proposed that a future committee meeting be held in Saudi Arabia and suggested launching sea travel options for pilgrims performing Hajj, Umrah, and Ziyarat. The Religious Affairs Ministry confirmed that maritime travel is under active consideration.
The committee members also raised the possibility of youth-targeted Hajj initiatives and introduced pilgrimage subsidies, similar to those offered in India.
The Ministry assured the committee that all such options are being reviewed for inclusion in the upcoming Hajj policy.
The meeting concluded with the unanimous appreciation for the Ministry’s work and a shared commitment to ensure even better arrangements for Hajj 2026.
