The Ministry of Religious Affairs of Pakistan has announced that starting January 2026, all pilgrimages will depart only through registered group organisers. This measure aims to improve safety, accountability, and coordination for religious travelers.
Minister of Religious Affairs Sardar Yousuf confirmed that preparations for pilgrimage departures by sea are complete. Pilgrims will soon have the option to travel from Iran to Iraq by sea, offering an alternative to traditional routes.
The Ministry has issued registration certificates to 67 new pilgrimage group organisers, increasing the total number of licensed companies to 91. This step is part of Pakistan’s broader effort to streamline pilgrimage operations and ensure safe and organized travel.
Sardar Yousuf emphasized that the government is committed to providing secure, transparent, and efficient facilities for pilgrims. By allowing only registered groups to operate, authorities aim to reduce risks, prevent unlicensed operations, and enhance the travel experience.
Officials noted that registered organisers will follow strict guidelines to ensure safety, comfort, and timely coordination during the pilgrimage. The Ministry will monitor compliance regularly to maintain high standards for all departures.
These reforms come as part of Pakistan’s ongoing efforts to modernize religious travel management. Authorities said the new regulations will make pilgrimages more organized and reliable, giving travelers peace of mind.
The Ministry also highlighted that these measures will protect pilgrims from fraudulent operators and help authorities better manage logistics during peak seasons. By implementing these changes, Pakistan aims to maintain high safety and service standards for all religious travelers.
In other related news also read Pre-Hajj Flights Commence With Issued Pilgrimage Guidelines
With these initiatives, Pakistan is moving toward a more structured and secure system for pilgrimages, ensuring that religious journeys are safe, smooth, and well-coordinated for all participants.
