New Hajj policy introduces Shariah savings scheme

July 08, 2026 (MLN): The federal cabinet on Wednesday approved Pakistan's first-ever four-year Hajj Policy and Plan 2027-2030, introducing a Shariah-compliant savings scheme, continuous Hajj registration until 2030, and a fully digital Hajj management system to improve planning and services for pilgrims.

The approval was granted during a cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in Islamabad, where members were given a detailed briefing on the new policy, according to Radio Pakistan.

The cabinet was informed that, unlike previous one-year Hajj policies, the new framework covers four years, enabling long-term planning, improved operational management, and enhanced facilities for pilgrims.

Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and other regulations will be formulated for its implementation, while amendments may be made whenever required to keep the policy aligned with Saudi laws and regulations.

Under the policy, intending pilgrims will be able to register continuously for Hajj in any year until 2030 instead of registering annually. A priority waiting list will be prepared on the basis of these registrations.

A key feature of the policy is the introduction of a Shariah-compliant savings scheme, allowing intending pilgrims to save through an Islamic savings plan to help finance their future Hajj journey.

The cabinet was also informed that the entire Hajj management system will be digitized, including payment mechanisms.

A digital complaint management system and digital monitoring will also be introduced to improve transparency and service delivery.

The policy allocates separate quotas for the government and private Hajj schemes and introduces both long- and short-duration Hajj programmes.

It also makes mandatory pilgrim training, Takaful arrangements, and emergency response mechanisms an integral part of the Hajj framework.

The cabinet directed that Hajj Muavineen be appointed through a transparent and merit-based process. It also instructed that third-party validation of both government and private Hajj operations be carried out to ensure accountability and quality standards.

The federal cabinet appreciated Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousaf and the ministry's team for the arrangements made for this year's Hajj.

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