ISLAMABAD: More than 308,000 Pakistanis have registered for Hajj between 2027 and 2030 within three weeks of the launch of registrations under the country’s first four-year Hajj policy.
Registration, which began on June 22, is part of Pakistan’s new Hajj Policy and Plan for 2027–2030, replacing the previous annual system.
The policy introduces continuous registration through 2030, enhanced digital services, mandatory training for pilgrims, and long-term operational planning aimed at improving the management and overall Hajj experience.
According to the Ministry of Religious Affairs, 222,000 applicants have registered under the government Hajj scheme, while another 86,000 have enrolled through the private Hajj scheme.
Pakistan is allocated an annual Hajj quota of around 179,000 pilgrims by Saudi Arabia, although the final number is determined by the Kingdom each year.
Officials say the new registration framework will enable the government to negotiate future quotas more effectively, strengthen long-term planning, and streamline services for intending pilgrims.
Also Read: Read Also: Pakistan Cabinet Approves First-Ever Four-Year Hajj Policy 2027–2030
According to the ministry, 181,000 of the registered applicants are men, while 127,000 are women. The highest number of registrations—around 119,000—came from the 33 to 44 age group, while nearly 40,000 applicants are aged 61 and above.
The ministry said the educational background of the registrants reflects broad participation, with approximately 3,500 PhD holders, 53,000 people holding master’s degrees, and 71,000 bachelor’s degree holders among those registered.
Online Hajj fee payment system
The spokesperson said the government is also considering introducing an online Hajj fee payment system during the next phase of the registration process to further enhance convenience for intending pilgrims.
Registration is currently being conducted through the online Hajj Portal and the Pak Hajj mobile application, developed with the support of the National Information Technology Board, enabling applicants to complete the entire process remotely.
A total of 179,210 Pakistanis performed Hajj in 2026 under the country’s official quota. Of these, 119,210 pilgrims travelled under the government Hajj scheme, while 60,000 performed the pilgrimage through private Hajj operators.
Saudi Arabia hosts millions of Muslims every year for Hajj, one of Islam’s five pillars.
The pilgrimage is obligatory at least once in a lifetime for Muslims who are physically and financially able to undertake the journey.
