Islamabad: The government will start receiving applications for Hajj-2026 from Monday. This was announced by Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony Sardar Muhammad Yousaf while giving details of the Hajj Policy 2026 in Islamabad on Wednesday.

According to Radio Pakistan, Pakistan’s Hajj quota for 2026 is set at 179,210, though the final announcement will be made by Saudi authorities. Sardar Muhammad Yousaf mentioned that the government scheme’s quota is 119,210, while 60,000 slots have been allocated for the private Hajj scheme.

The Minister detailed that two packages will be available under the government Hajj scheme: a long package lasting 38-42 days and a short one of 20-25 days. It was also noted that children below twelve will not be permitted to perform Hajj this year.

He further stated that the estimated cost for the Government Hajj Scheme will range between 11.5 to 12.5 lakh rupees, subject to the final approval of agreements with service providers. Overseas Hajj pilgrims are advised to send their Hajj payments to designated bank accounts under the Government Hajj Scheme. Vaccination, as approved by Saudi Arabia, will be mandatory.

The “Route to Mecca” facility will continue at Islamabad and Karachi airports. The Ministry of Religious Affairs will deploy a monitoring team to oversee Hajj operations, aiming to enhance service quality. Furthermore, a comprehensive and transparent grievance redressal system will be in place to handle complaints efficiently and fairly.