Pakistan has formally requested Saudi Arabia to raise its Hajj 2026 quota to 230,000 pilgrims. The request aims to allow more citizens to perform the pilgrimage.
Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony Sardar Muhammad Yousaf shared the update during a media briefing in Islamabad. He said the request is proportional to Pakistan’s population and reflects growing demand among intending pilgrims.
Currently, Saudi Arabia has allocated a Hajj 2026 quota of 179,210 for Pakistani pilgrims. Around 118,000 seats are reserved under the government scheme, while the remaining spots are for private tour operators.
Sardar Muhammad Yousaf also highlighted the “Route to Makkah” project, which will allow over 38,000 pilgrims to travel from Islamabad. The government is working to expand this facility to Lahore. At present, it operates only in Islamabad and Karachi.
The minister said arrangements for Hajj 2026 have been finalized in coordination with the Saudi government. Mandatory training sessions for intending pilgrims are underway across the country to ensure awareness of Hajj rituals and administrative procedures. The first phase of training will continue until February.
He noted that Pakistan received over 450,000 Hajj applications this year, demonstrating strong public trust in government arrangements.
During the briefing, Sardar Muhammad Yousaf emphasized his commitment to pilgrims’ welfare. He said he will personally remain in Saudi Arabia to address any complaints and urged Khuddam-ul-Hujjaj Nazims to serve pilgrims efficiently.
The minister also mentioned that in his previous visits for Hajj, he did not avail any official protocol, highlighting his dedication to serving pilgrims humbly.
Raising the Hajj 2026 quota remains a top priority for Pakistan’s government, which seeks to accommodate as many intending pilgrims as possible while ensuring smooth travel and religious arrangements.
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