Close to 250,000 Pakistanis have completed the mandatory registration process for Hajj 2026, as the initial deadline wraps up today (Wednesday), according to reports from state media.
The Ministry of Religious Affairs had opened the registration last month, giving potential pilgrims until July 9 to submit their applications without needing to pay any fee upfront.
Applicants were able to register either online or through 15 selected banks across the country.
Those who’ve completed this step will later be given the option to choose between the government-run or private Hajj schemes, once the full policy, covering expenses and other conditions, is officially released.
According to the Associated Press of Pakistan, the large number of early sign-ups shows strong interest in the upcoming pilgrimage, despite the difficulties many faced during Hajj 2025.
That year, private tour operators struggled to make use of their full quota due to issues with payments and coordination, leaving many without proper arrangements.
In 2025, Pakistan had a total quota of 179,210 pilgrims, split equally between the government and private sectors.
While the government successfully sent more than 88,000 pilgrims, the private sector faced challenges that affected thousands.
This year’s mandatory registration also includes those who were unable to travel under the private Hajj scheme previously, along with applicants from abroad.