Big News for Pakistani Umrah Pilgrims: Ministry Releases List of Verified Umrah Operators

Islamabad: In a major development for Pakistanis planning to perform Umrah, the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony has officially released a list of verified Umrah operators for the Hijri year 1447.

According to the Ministry, 53 Umrah companies from across the country have so far completed verification of their documents and agreements. This move aims to protect pilgrims from fraud, scams, and financial losses.

A spokesperson for the Ministry stated that the approved operators are based in various cities, including Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and Peshawar. These companies were thoroughly scrutinized and found eligible to operate.

Ministry spokesperson Muhammad Umar Butt urged all pilgrims to book Umrah packages only through these verified operators to avoid any potential harm or loss.

He further clarified that the verified list is valid for the entire Islamic year 1447 Hijri. Other Umrah companies have been directed to complete their documentation and agreements in accordance with ministry regulations.

The Ministry has made the verified list publicly accessible on its official website, with a downloadable PDF version available for convenience.

Meanwhile, the Ministry also announced earlier this week that over 114,500 applications have been received under the Government Hajj Scheme 2026, with only around 3,500 seats remaining. Nominated banks have been instructed to continue accepting applications until the quota is fully booked.

Prospective pilgrims are advised to submit their applications at the nearest designated bank branches as soon as possible, as the process will be halted immediately once the final seat is filled.