Pakistan says its Pakistan Hajj 2026 arrangements are fully prepared, with no additional cost for 180,000 pilgrims expected to perform Hajj this year. Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousuf announced that the quota includes 120,000 government pilgrims and 60,000 private pilgrims.
Speaking to PTV News in Riyadh on Sunday, the minister said Hajj flight operations will begin on April 18. He also announced a new Lahore-to-Saudi Arabia route to make travel easier for pilgrims, while flights from other cities will continue as scheduled.
The minister said Pakistan will fully utilise its Hajj quota this year. He added that the new Lahore route marks one of the key improvements in this year’s travel plan for pilgrims.
Previously, the Hajj route operated from Karachi to Islamabad. Now, the addition of Lahore is expected to improve access and convenience for intending pilgrims.
Sardar Muhammad Yousuf said the ministry plans to conduct all key operations smoothly and in an exemplary manner. These arrangements include flights, accommodation, and transport to ensure the comfort and safety of Pakistani pilgrims.
He said the Ministry of Religious Affairs is working to deliver high-quality arrangements and strong management throughout the pilgrimage season. According to the minister, the goal is to make this year’s Hajj a model experience in both facilities and organisation.
Ministry to coordinate with private Hajj companies
The minister also said the ministry will closely coordinate with private companies to regulate Umrah services, accommodation, catering, and transport. That coordination is intended to improve oversight and maintain service standards for pilgrims travelling under the private Hajj scheme.
This public-private coordination remains important because Pakistan’s overall Hajj quota includes both government and private pilgrims.
Sardar Muhammad Yousuf also praised Saudi Arabia’s arrangements and support for Pakistani pilgrims. He said the strong relationship between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia continues to help both governments facilitate a safe and memorable pilgrimage experience.
He added that Pakistan aims to maintain exemplary standards while making full use of its Hajj quota this year
