Pakistan’s federal government has established a centralised system to organise pilgrimages to holy sites in Iran, Iraq, and Syria, following findings that there are no records for 40,000 Zaireen (pilgrims) who have not returned in recent years.
During a press conference on July 16, 2025, Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousaf announced an initiative aimed at improving security and accountability through enhanced monitoring. This decision comes in response to concerns raised by host countries and aims to eliminate informal travel arrangements. Furthermore, Pakistan has requested that Saudi Arabia increase its Hajj quota from 179,000 to 230,000, taking into account the country’s population.
Minister Yousaf revealed that around 40,000 Pakistani pilgrims are currently in Iraq, Syria, and Iran without proper tracking. “If the government maintained accurate records, we would know the whereabouts of each pilgrim,” he stated. Host governments have consistently raised this issue, emphasising the lack of a formal structure to address it.
Pilgrims used to travel alone or in informal groups without official registration, which led to insecurity and complaints from the destination countries. This unmonitored system posed risks for the pilgrims and strained diplomatic relations.
Details of the New Zaireen Group Organisers Framework
The government has approved a framework for Zaireen Group Organisers (ZGOs) to manage pilgrimages through registered companies. Over 1,400 companies have applied to register as ZGOs following the issuance of a public notice. The outdated informal system will be phased out soon; interested firms are urged to register immediately.
Read: Pakistan Repatriates Nationals from Iran and Iraq Amid Regional Conflicts
The Zaireen Group Organisers (ZGOs) are dedicated to ensuring proper tracking, safety, and accountability for all pilgrims. The new Zaireen system addresses significant tracking gaps related to 40,000 missing pilgrims, enhancing safety and promoting diplomatic efforts. In conjunction with the Hajj quota request, this initiative signals a commitment to improving the management of the pilgrimage.
