The Ministry of Religious Affairs has introduced a new regulation policy for private Hajj schemes, requiring security clearance for individuals opting for Hajj packages costing more than Rs3 million.

The move is aimed at ensuring transparency and preventing misuse of funds in one of Islam’s most significant religious pilgrimages.

Under the revised policy, the names of pilgrims opting for expensive private Hajj packages will be sent to the FBR. The board will then investigate the assets and tax history of pilgrims choosing expensive private Hajj packages.

The names of these individuals will be forwarded to security agencies to assess their criminal records or any other relevant history. Only after receiving security clearance will such pilgrims be permitted to proceed with their Hajj arrangements.

Additionally, companies offering Hajj packages above the Rs3 million threshold must submit detailed information about their packages for approval by the Ministry of Religious Affairs. The ministry will scrutinise and approve the pricing and associated expenses to ensure compliance with regulations.

To oversee the implementation of the new policy, the Ministry has appointed Muhammad Hakeem Khattak as the focal person.

Also Read: Private Hajj 2025 packages unveiled as MoRA inks pact with tour operators

Last week, the Ministry of Religious Affairs reached an agreement with private Hajj tour operators, granting them permission to begin Hajj bookings. The tour operators are now allowed to accept bookings until January 31.

However, for Hajj packages worth over Rs3 million, approval from the Hajj Formulation Committee would be mandatory. The new policy aims to streamline the Hajj process and ensure transparency while also accommodating the growing demand for private Hajj services.

The collection of Hajj applications for the limited quota also started last week. Applications would be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.

Moreover, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia signed an agreement for Hajj, paving the way for improved facilities for Pakistani pilgrims. Federal Minister Chaudhry Salik Hussain participated in a four-day International Hajj Conference in Jeddah. Salik and the Saudi minister of Hajj signed the agreement in Jeddah.

Also Read: Pakistan and Saudi Arabia sign Hajj 2025 agreement in Jeddah

Under this agreement, 189,210 Pakistanis would perform Hajj this year, as confirmed by a Ministry of Religious Affairs spokesperson. A ministry spokesperson highlighted several new measures to ensure a more comfortable Hajj experience for Pakistani pilgrims:

Pilgrims will have access to dedicated spaces in Mina, with reduced rates for better affordability. A 20-25-day Hajj program has been introduced, allowing pilgrims to customize their schedule. Pilgrims will stay in Medina for four to eight days and have the option to choose accommodations according to their preferences.

Each pilgrim will receive a specially designed bag featuring the Pakistani flag, a QR-coded identity tag, and all necessary information. A dedicated app will provide pilgrims with live maps, locations, and essential updates, enhancing their Hajj experience.