Pakistan in Talks with Saudi Authorities to Increase Hajj Quota to 230,000: Minister for Religious Affairs

Islamabad: Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousaf has said that Pakistan is in continuous contact with Saudi authorities to increase the country’s Hajj quota to 230,000 in line with its population, expressing optimism that Pakistan’s quota will be enhanced along with other countries.

Addressing a Hajj training workshop at the Haji Camp in Islamabad, the minister said that simultaneous Hajj training for 120,000 intending pilgrims has begun across the country. He warned that pilgrims who fail to complete the mandatory training may be deprived of performing Hajj.

Sardar Muhammad Yousaf emphasized that participation in both phases of Hajj training is compulsory. He said the first phase will continue until February 14, while the second phase will be held after Ramadan. He added that more than 200 Hajj training workshops are being conducted simultaneously at various locations nationwide.

The minister said Hajj training is essential for the correct performance of rituals, acceptance of worship, discipline, patience, and developing a sense of collective responsibility. He noted that lack of proper training increases the risk of mistakes, mismanagement, and accidents during large gatherings.

He urged pilgrims to fully familiarize themselves with Saudi laws and arrangements and to avoid political or religious gatherings during Hajj. “Trained pilgrims not only ensure their own safety but also make things easier for others,” he said.

Speaking on the occasion, Federal Secretary for Religious Affairs Dr. Sajid Mahmood Chauhan warned that Saudi Arabia takes strict action against those found carrying narcotics or prohibited items. He advised pilgrims to strictly follow the instructions of Saudi authorities and Pakistani Hajj support staff.

Later, while talking to the media, the minister said that under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s directives, all arrangements under the Hajj Policy 2026 are being finalized in accordance with the Saudi timeline. He added that Pakistan’s Hajj package remains more affordable and of better quality compared to neighboring countries.

Sardar Muhammad Yousaf said work is progressing rapidly to include Lahore Airport in the Route to Makkah project after Islamabad and Karachi, which will allow pilgrims to complete dual immigration procedures in Pakistan. He informed that more than 38,000 pilgrims will travel under the Route to Makkah facility from Islamabad Airport for Hajj 2026.

He said that under the government Hajj scheme, 120,000 pilgrims were given the facility to pay dues in two installments, which was well received by the public. He added that reforms are also being introduced in the private Hajj scheme to ensure better services for pilgrims traveling through the private sector.

The minister noted that due to improved arrangements last year, complaints were significantly reduced and Saudi authorities awarded Pakistan an Excellence Award. He added that the term Khuddam-ul-Hujjaj has been restored for Hajj staff and that uniform standard accommodation has been secured in Makkah for all government scheme pilgrims.