The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has instructed authorised branches of 14 designated banks across the country to remain open on Saturday, 16 August 2025, from 9:00 am to 2:30 pm, to receive Hajj 2026 application forms.
The decision follows a request from the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony to make it easier for intending pilgrims to submit applications, especially for those unable to visit during regular banking days.
As of August 13, the ministry reported receiving 91,300 applications under the government’s Hajj 2026 scheme.
More than 37,000 seats remain available, and applications will be accepted until August 16 or until the quota is filled. Forms can be submitted online or at designated bank branches nationwide.
“Receiving of Hajj applications will be stopped immediately once the available seats are filled,” the ministry’s spokesperson confirmed.
This year’s government scheme offers two packages: a long stay of 38–42 days and a short stay of 20–25 days. Costs range from Rs1.15 million to Rs1.25 million, with an initial payment of Rs500,000 or Rs550,000, depending on the package, due at the time of application. The remaining balance must be paid by November 1.
Overseas Pakistanis holding a valid Pakistani passport are also eligible to apply. Under the new allocation, 70 percent of the quota is reserved for the government scheme, while 30 percent is for private tour operators.
Out of Pakistan’s total Hajj quota of 179,210 pilgrims, 119,210 are allocated for the government scheme and 60,000 for private operators, pending final approval from Saudi authorities.