Hajj 2026 registration of pilgrims starts as new rules introduced
Saudi Arabia introduces new rules for Hajj 2026: Pakistani pilgrims must register by July 9: Pakistani govt designates 15 banks for free registration: Only those completing registration process will be considered eligible for Hajj
If you're planning to perform Hajj in 2026, it's time to act now, as registration has officially begun and will continue until July 9, reported 24NewsHD TV channel on Friday.
According to the Ministry of Religious Affairs, this early registration drive is being conducted on the directives of the Saudi government, which aims to finalise Hajj quotas based on timely data submission from each country.
The ministry clarified that registration is compulsory for all Pakistani pilgrims, whether they intend to go through the government Hajj scheme or a private tour operator.
Additionally, Pakistanis living abroad and those who were unable to go under the private scheme this year must also complete this mandatory registration process.
The Ministry of Religious Affairs emphasised that only those who register within the given timeline will be considered eligible to perform Hajj in 2026.
According to the channel report, registrations are being facilitated at 15 designated banks across the country, and notably, no fee is required at this stage.
The channel also reported that those who register will be eligible for final selection under either the government or private scheme at a later stage.
The current registration data will help the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah in determining Pakistan’s official quota, while the costs, terms, and conditions for Hajj 2026 will be announced separately.
Reporter: Shahid Sipra