60.3% of quota filled; 46,924 seats still available for aspiring pilgrims
Islamabad — The Ministry of Religious Affairs on Sunday formally opened the second phase of applications for the Government Hajj 2026 scheme, following a slower-than-expected response in the first phase that left tens of thousands of seats unclaimed. The decision aims to ensure that all available slots under the official quota are filled well ahead of the pilgrimage season.
Quota Status and Registrations So Far
According to the latest statistics released by the ministry, only 60.3 percent of the total quota has been filled to date. Over the past six days, 71,286 pilgrims have submitted applications at designated banks across the country. Out of the 118,210 seats allocated under the scheme, 46,924 remain vacant, signaling significant room for additional applicants.
Officials explained that applications for the second phase will remain open until the quota is completely filled. Once the capacity is reached, the process will be closed immediately, regardless of whether the August 16 deadline has passed.
Application Process and Payment Structure
Prospective pilgrims must submit their applications along with the first installment of the pilgrimage expenses. For those opting for the long Hajj package, the initial payment is set at 500,000 rupees, while for the short Hajj package, it is 550,000 rupees. The balance will be payable in later installments, as per the ministry’s payment schedule.
Applicants are strongly advised to ensure their documentation is complete before submission. Required paperwork typically includes a valid CNIC, passport, and proof of residence. Incomplete or inaccurate applications may result in processing delays or rejection. Medical fitness certificates will also be mandatory to ensure that only healthy individuals are cleared for the physically demanding pilgrimage.
Overseas Pakistanis Included in Second Phase
To broaden participation, the ministry has extended eligibility to overseas Pakistanis, who may apply through their close relatives residing in Pakistan. This category of applicants must present a valid medical fitness certificate upon returning to Pakistan, ahead of their departure for Saudi Arabia. The move is expected to increase applications, especially from families hoping to perform Hajj together despite geographical distances.
Reasons for First Phase Shortfall
Officials have identified several possible reasons for the underwhelming response during the initial phase. Economic challenges, rising living costs, and the significant expense of the pilgrimage are believed to have played a key role. In some cases, personal scheduling conflicts, work commitments, and uncertainty about travel arrangements deterred potential applicants from committing early.
Religious scholars and community leaders have also noted that some prospective pilgrims prefer to delay their decision until closer to the deadline, often to coordinate with family members or arrange finances. The ministry hopes that the additional time and inclusion of overseas Pakistanis will address these issues.
Government’s Commitment to Pilgrims
The Ministry of Religious Affairs has reassured applicants that the government remains committed to providing transparent selection procedures, comfortable accommodation, quality meals, efficient transportation, and medical support for all pilgrims under the scheme.
“We are determined to make the pilgrimage process as smooth and dignified as possible,” an official spokesperson said. “Every effort will be made to ensure pilgrims receive quality services from departure to return.”
As the second phase gets underway, officials are urging eligible individuals to apply at the earliest opportunity, noting that demand may rise sharply in the coming weeks as awareness spreads and more families finalize their plans for the sacred journey.
