ISLAMABAD – The federal cabinet has officially approved the Hajj Policy for 2026 in a meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The decision is a significant development for the upcoming Hajj season, with the government making key changes to the quota distribution and expected costs for pilgrims.
According to reliable sources, the cabinet agreed on a 70% government quota and a 30% quota for private Hajj operators. This adjustment was made after the Ministry of Religious Affairs initially proposed a 60% government and 40% private quota. The Prime Minister revised the distribution, prioritizing government-controlled arrangements. This move is expected to make Hajj more accessible to a larger number of individuals through government-managed channels, while still allowing private operators to manage a smaller portion of the pilgrims.
The expected cost for the government Hajj in 2026 is anticipated to fall between 1.15 million and 1.25 million rupees. This range is seen as a reflection of both the rising costs of organizing the pilgrimage and the government’s commitment to ensuring a smooth and organized experience for the pilgrims.
During the meeting, the cabinet also approved several other agenda items. While specific details of these other approvals were not immediately disclosed, it is understood that these decisions align with the broader goals of the federal government to facilitate essential services and ensure a well-coordinated Hajj operation in 2026.
This approval marks an important step toward preparing for the 2026 Hajj season, with the government making efforts to balance accessibility, cost-effectiveness, and organizational control to serve the needs of Pakistani pilgrims.
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