The Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony has introduced a new Ziarat Booking system for Pakistani pilgrims traveling to Iran and Iraq. The new process aims to make pilgrimage travel safer, more organized, and more transparent.
Under the new Ziyarat Policy 2026, pilgrims must now complete their Ziarat Booking only through government-approved Ziarat Group Organizers (ZGOs). The ministry said this step will help improve travel management and protect pilgrims from fraud.
According to the ministry, a total of 262 Ziarat Group Organizers have been registered under the new policy. These approved organizers are authorized to arrange travel packages for pilgrims visiting holy sites in Iran and Iraq.
The ministry has also published the complete list of registered organizers on its official website. Pilgrims have been advised to check this list carefully before selecting a travel company. Officials said choosing a registered organizer is important for a safe and reliable journey.
The new Ziarat Booking system does not allow unregistered individuals or companies to arrange pilgrimage travel. Only approved organizers can accept bookings under the updated policy.
Authorities warned that people should avoid dealing with unauthorized agents. Booking through an unregistered company may expose travelers to fraud or financial loss. The ministry made it clear that it will not accept responsibility for any problems caused by unauthorized bookings.
Officials said the new policy has been introduced to improve accountability in pilgrimage travel. It is also intended to eliminate illegal operators who offer travel services without government approval.
The ministry believes the updated system will increase public confidence in organized pilgrimage travel. It will also help ensure that pilgrims receive proper services from licensed organizers.
Pilgrims planning to visit religious sites in Iran or Iraq should verify the registration status of their selected organizer before making any payment. Checking the official list can help travelers avoid scams and fake travel agencies.
The government has encouraged all applicants to follow the official process when arranging their pilgrimage. Travelers should keep copies of booking records and payment receipts for future reference.
Officials said the policy is designed to provide greater transparency throughout the booking process. Registered organizers must follow the rules and standards set by the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony.
The introduction of the new Ziarat Booking system also supports better monitoring of pilgrimage travel. Authorities will be able to supervise approved operators more effectively and ensure compliance with government regulations.
Pakistan sends thousands of pilgrims to Iran and Iraq every year to visit important religious sites. Managing these journeys through licensed organizers is expected to improve service quality and reduce complaints.
The ministry has advised pilgrims not to rely on advertisements or verbal promises from unauthorized agents. Instead, they should confirm the organizer’s registration before finalizing any travel arrangements.
In other related news also read Pakistan Issues New Guidelines for Iran, Iraq Pilgrims
With the launch of the new Ziarat Booking system, the government hopes to make pilgrimage travel more secure, organized, and reliable. Officials have urged all pilgrims to follow the updated rules and book only through approved Ziarat Group Organizers to ensure a smooth and safe journey.
