Private Hajj bookings gain pace as firms upload packages on portal

Bookings under Pakistan’s private Hajj scheme have gained momentum after most Hajj organisers uploaded their packages on the official Hajj Portal, the Ministry of Religious Affairs said on Friday. According to a ministry spokesperson, pilgrims can choose from 16 basic Hajj packages ranging from Rs1.4 million to Rs3.75 million, depending on their preferences, requirements and budget. The packages include options for shorter stays, direct flights to Saudi Arabia from abroad and five-star Hajj arrangements, providing additional choices particularly for overseas Pakistanis. The ministry advised private pilgrims to carefully review the facilities, terms and conditions of each package on the Pak Hajj App or Hajj Portal before making a selection. It also warned pilgrims to make package selection and payments only through the Hajj Portal and avoid paying any individual, agent or company directly. The ministry said it would not be responsible for any financial loss resulting from direct payments. A total of 71,684 seats have been allocated for the private Hajj scheme this year, while the deadline for package selection and payment has been set for November 20, 2026. The ministry said it coul