Private Hajj bookings gain pace as firms upload packages on portal

Private Hajj bookings are increasing as travel companies upload packages to the official Hajj Portal, according to the Ministry of Religious Affairs. The ministry reported on Friday that pilgrims can select from 16 basic Hajj packages, priced from Rs1.4 million to Rs3.75 million, based on their preferences, needs, and budget. These packages offer options such as shorter stays, direct flights from overseas to Saudi Arabia, and five-star arrangements, catering to overseas Pakistanis in particular.

The ministry cautioned private pilgrims to thoroughly examine the facilities, terms, and conditions of each package on the Pak Hajj App or the Hajj Portal before making a decision. It also emphasized that pilgrims must select packages and make payments exclusively through the Hajj Portal, refraining from direct payments to individuals, agents, or companies.

The ministry clarified that it would not bear responsibility for any financial losses arising from direct payments. In total, 71,684 seats have been designated for the private Hajj scheme this year, with the deadline for package selection and payment set for November 20, 2026. Should the private scheme's allocation remain unused by the deadline, the ministry indicated a possibility of reallocating the quota.

The ministry urged pilgrims and Hajj organizers to complete bookings and payments promptly to ensure finalization of Hajj arrangements. The ministry's move to use the Hajj Portal and the Pak Hajj App aimed at promoting transparency, convenience, and digitalization in private Hajj operations.