The Ministry of Religious Affairs has started receiving applications for the 2026 Private Hajj scheme. This year, 37,903 new pilgrims will be able to apply.
At the same time, 22,097 pilgrims who could not perform Hajj last year will be given priority. According to the ministry, Private Hajj operators must first adjust these registered pilgrims before opening slots to new applicants.
The total quota for Private Hajj operators has been fixed at 60,000. Out of this, 22,097 places are for those left out last year, while 37,903 will go to fresh applicants. Operators are also required to provide an affidavit confirming that last year’s pilgrims have been accommodated.
The government stressed that this system aims to ensure fairness and transparency in the allocation of seats. With this arrangement, thousands of pilgrims will finally be able to perform the sacred journey after a long wait.
Earlier, the government’s Hajj scheme concluded on August 23 after attracting an overwhelming response. A total of 118,060 pilgrims applied within just 17 days, forcing authorities to close the process earlier than expected. Applications were received both online and through designated banks under a first-come, first-served policy.
Applicants under the government scheme also had the choice of long or short-duration packages. The ministry confirmed that half of the expenses were collected as the first installment, with the rest to be paid later.
With the launch of the Private Hajj scheme, thousands of new and previously deprived pilgrims now have the opportunity to perform Hajj in 2026. This development marks an important step in meeting the growing demand for pilgrimage arrangements in Pakistan.
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