Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousaf has announced that Saudi Arabia has officially lifted the mahram (male guardian) requirement for women pilgrims, allowing them to perform Hajj independently.
Speaking during a National Assembly Standing Committee meeting on Religious Affairs, chaired by Aamir Dogar, the minister also shared that installment-based payment plans for Hajj 2026 are under consideration, similar to previous years.
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He praised the success of Hajj 2025, highlighting that Pakistan received an Excellence Award from the Saudi government for the first time. The minister noted that pilgrims expressed high satisfaction, with several new facilities introduced, including air-conditioned tents in Arafat. A task force was deployed to resolve issues on the spot.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif directed that all arrangements comply with Saudi guidelines, and a new Hajj policy is being formulated. The committee was invited to offer suggestions for the policy.
Chairman Aamir Dogar commended the arrangements and called Hajj 2025 exemplary. He stressed the need for even better preparations for Hajj 2026.
While 67,000 private pilgrims initially missed out, Pakistan received an additional quota of 10,000, though 63,000 could not go. Officials aim to extend the “Road to Makkah” immigration facility, currently available in Islamabad and Karachi, to Lahore, Quetta, and Peshawar.
So far, 455,000 people have registered for the next Hajj, with expectations of receiving a quota of 255,000 pilgrims, up from 189,000. Those who missed Hajj this year will be prioritized for 2026, and refunds are available if requested.
Officials also confirmed that no Indian firm was involved in transport arrangements, and 365 million Saudi Riyals remain deposited. Maritime travel options are being explored, including ship-based pilgrimages. Subsidies and youth-specific Hajj programs are under review for future planning..
