Ministry of Religious Affairs extends booking date for private Hajj scheme 2026

ISLAMABAD: The Ministry of Religious Affairs has extended the booking date for the Private Hajj Scheme 2026 until October 22.

According to a spokesperson for the Ministry of Religious Affairs, private Hajj tour operators have booked 55,500 pilgrims.

The private quota of four and a half is still vacant. After the extension, the last date for booking pilgrims under the Private Hajj Scheme has been fixed as October 22.

The Secretary of Religious Affairs approved the extension of the date. According to the spokesperson, the booking process will be completed under the Hajj Policy and Service Provider Agreement.

Earlier, the Ministry of Religious Affairs declared a new policy for registered pilgrims who cannot perform Hajj because of unavoidable events, such as serious sickness or death.

Under the ministry’s notification, in such instances, a close relative of the registered pilgrim will be entitled to perform Hajj on their behalf.

A pilgrim who cannot travel can substitute another individual or opt for a refund of the amount deposited.

The policy also states that a request for a refund or substitution must be accompanied by valid grounds and supporting documents, such as a death certificate or a medical certificate.

Applicants will also be asked to provide an affidavit on stamp paper, the original bank deposit slip, and a photocopy of the national identity card.

The authorities said the new policy is to facilitate genuine cases without financial or procedural obstacles.