Applications for Hajj 2026 Now Open
Pakistan’s Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony has officially commenced the application process for Hajj 2026. According to ministry spokesperson Muhammad Umar Butt, applicants can submit their forms starting August 4, 2025, through designated banks or via the official government online portal.
This year’s process begins with a “first come, first served” model, prioritizing previously registered individuals in the initial phase.
Phased Registration Timeline
The application window is divided into two phases:
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Phase 1 (August 4–9, 2025): Only those who are already registered in the government database will be eligible to apply during this time. Applications will be accepted until August 9, 2025.
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Phase 2 (August 11–16, 2025): If seats remain available after Phase 1, new applicants will be invited to apply during this period.
Officials have urged all interested pilgrims to act promptly to secure their slots, as availability may become limited due to high demand.
Estimated Cost of Hajj 2026
The government has released a tentative price range for the Hajj 2026 package:
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Between PKR 1.15 million to 1.25 million (approx. USD 4,000–4,300),
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This includes the cost of Qurbani (animal sacrifice).
The Ministry has emphasized that this range is subject to change based on currency fluctuations, airline rates, and arrangements with Saudi authorities closer to the pilgrimage period.
Installment-Based Payment Plan
To ease the financial burden on applicants, the Ministry has introduced a two-installment payment system:
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First installment due by August 9, 2025
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Second installment begins November 1, 2025
This phased payment option is intended to provide applicants greater flexibility in managing their expenses.
Key Policy Changes: Age Limit and Repeat Hajj Restrictions Lifted
One of the most notable policy shifts this year is the removal of age and frequency restrictions:
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There is no upper age limit for pilgrims in 2026.
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Individuals who have previously performed Hajj are now eligible to apply again, reversing the earlier limitation that prioritized first-time pilgrims.
These changes aim to broaden access and accommodate those who were previously excluded due to age or having already completed the pilgrimage.
Eligibility Rules for Children
However, there are still age restrictions for children.
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Children born after March 1, 2014, will not be eligible to participate in Hajj 2026.
This policy is aligned with the Saudi government’s guidelines and logistical considerations surrounding minors during the pilgrimage.
Where to Apply and Get More Information
Applicants can:
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Visit the official website of the Ministry of Religious Affairs
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Or contact any designated bank branch for guidance and to obtain the application form.
Spokesperson Umar Butt reiterated that early registration is critical:
“We encourage all intending pilgrims to submit their applications without delay to secure their places and prepare for this sacred journey.”
Context: Pakistan’s Hajj Program in Perspective
Pakistan sends one of the largest contingents of pilgrims to Saudi Arabia each year. In 2025, over 179,000 Pakistanis performed Hajj under both government and private schemes. The Ministry has increasingly emphasized digitalization, transparency, and accessibility in its Hajj operations, introducing online tracking systems and mobile apps in recent years.
Saudi Arabia, the host country for the annual pilgrimage, welcomes over 2 million Muslims from across the globe for Hajj each year, making it one of the largest religious gatherings worldwide.
Final Note
As the Hajj 2026 application cycle gets underway, prospective pilgrims are advised to review eligibility criteria, organize necessary documents, and keep track of payment deadlines. With key policy relaxations and a structured process in place, the Pakistani government aims to ensure that more citizens can fulfill this important religious obligation.
