On August 15, 2025, the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) announced that authorised branches of 14 designated banks will be open on Saturday, August 16, from 9:00 AM to 2:30 PM to accept Hajj 2026 application forms in response to the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, aims to assist pilgrims who are unable to visit during regular banking hours.
The Ministry reported that it has received 91,300 applications for the government’s Hajj 2026 program as of August 13. There are still 37,000 seats available. Applications will be accepted until August 16, or until the quota is filled. Interested individuals can submit their applications through the official online portal or at designated banks. The Ministry also cautioned that the application process will close once the 119,210-seat government quota has been reached.
The government scheme offers two packages:
- Long Package: 38–42 days, costing Rs1.15 million to Rs1.25 million.
- Short Package: 20–25 days, with the same price range.
An initial payment of either Rs 500,000 or Rs 550,000 is required, with the remaining balance due starting November 1. Overseas Pakistanis with valid passports are eligible to apply. The total Hajj quota is 179,210, with 70% allocated for the government scheme and 30% for private operators, pending approval from Saudi authorities.
Read: Pakistan Hajj 2026: Application Dates Extended for Unregistered Pilgrims
The extended banking hours reflect Pakistan’s commitment to easing the Hajj application process, ensuring accessibility for all eligible pilgrims. The initiative supports the 2026 pilgrimage’s smooth execution, aligning with efforts to accommodate religious obligations amidst a busy schedule, as seen in recent Chehlum arrangements.
