ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has formally requested the Saudi government to increase its Hajj quota, the Ministry of Religious Affairs informed a National Assembly committee on Wednesday.
In a brief given to the National Assembly Standing Committee on Religious Affairs, details were given regarding the arrangements for Hajj 2026. Director General Hajj told that despite over 100,000 people performing Hajj, there had been a decrease in complaints and only 3,000 complaints had occurred.
Chairperson of the Committee Shagufta Jumani pointed out that complaints could be seen on social media and there was a need to improve the arrangements for Hajj.
Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousaf revealed that most complaints are addressed instantly and Saudi authorities are satisfied with Pakistan’s Hajj arrangements.
The ministry briefed the committee that 325,000 applications have been registered till now for Hajj 2027 and an increased Hajj quota is being sought from Saudi Arabia.
It was revealed that the process of digital Hajj registration for the years 2027 to 2030 was being carried out. Over 325,000 applicants had applied online through National IT Board’s Hajj Portal and Pak Hajj mobile app.
According to ministry data, 283,000 applicants registered through the Hajj portal, while 43,000 completed registrations through the mobile application. Among the registered applicants, 235,000 selected the government Hajj scheme, while 90,000 opted for the private scheme.
The registered applicants include 191,000 men and 134,000 women. Officials said the online registration process will continue until further notice.
The ministry added that the National IT Board has also developed an online system for collecting Hajj dues, while details of Hajj packages and payment procedures will be announced soon.
