Cabinet Approves Private Hajj Policy 2027–2030 With Strict Regulatory Framework

ISLAMABAD: The federal cabinet has approved the Private Hajj Policy 2027–2030 presented by the Ministry of Religious Affairs, introducing a stricter and performance-based regulatory system for private Hajj operators.

According to a spokesperson for the Ministry of Religious Affairs, the new policy replaces the traditional quota system with a compliance- and performance-based framework. All existing Hajj operators will be required to undergo fresh evaluation under the revised rules.

Under the approved policy, private Hajj quotas will be allocated on a “first come, first served” basis. Each operator will be required to secure a minimum of 2,000 pilgrims; companies failing to meet this threshold will be declared inactive.

The spokesperson further stated that underperforming companies will face penalties, including the forfeiture of 50% of their security deposits, while pilgrims registered with such operators will be automatically transferred to other licensed companies.

All Hajj companies will be assessed and ranked by independent experts. Licenses for private Hajj operators will be issued for a period of three years, while quota trading will be strictly prohibited. The policy also imposes strict action against cartelization and monopolistic practices in the sector.

The new framework mandates full digitalization of private Hajj operations. Bookings will only be processed through the Private Hajj Management Portal (PHMP), which will be integrated with the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) and the State Bank of Pakistan.

Cash transactions and direct bookings have been completely banned. Hajj companies will not be allowed to retain pilgrims’ funds, and all payments to Saudi service providers will be made directly through official banking channels.

According to officials, all payments in Saudi Arabia will be routed through State Bank of Pakistan accounts. The government said the new policy aims to enhance transparency, accountability, and the protection of pilgrims, while aligning Pakistan’s private Hajj system with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.