Pakistan’s Government Hajj Scheme Records Full Quota Utilization
By Faiza Musa Adamu
Pakistan’s government Hajj scheme achieved full quota utilization during the 2026 pilgrimage season, with more than 119,000 pilgrims performing Hajj under the state-managed program, according to official figures.
The Ministry of Religious Affairs reported that all available slots allocated under the government scheme were filled, reflecting strong public participation and sustained confidence in the country’s official Hajj arrangements.
Of the total pilgrims who travelled under the program, 77,743 selected the long Hajj package, which lasted between 40 and 45 days, while 41,467 opted for the shorter package of 20 to 22 days.
Authorities confirmed that both packages reached full capacity during the season. Officials said the government spent a total of Rs139.16 billion to facilitate the pilgrimage operation.
The expenditure covered accommodation, transportation, catering, administrative services, and other logistical requirements necessary to support pilgrims throughout their stay in Saudi Arabia.
The average cost per pilgrim ranged between Rs1.15 million and Rs1.2 million, depending on the package selected and the services provided.
Data released by the authorities also showed a significant level of female participation in the program. Women accounted for 43.5 per cent of the total pilgrims, while men represented 56.5 per cent.
The government Hajj scheme remains a major national operation that requires extensive coordination between Pakistani authorities and Saudi institutions to manage travel, accommodation, health services, and pilgrimage activities.
Officials described the complete utilization of the allocated quota as a positive outcome for the program and an indication of continued demand for government-managed Hajj services.
They noted that the successful execution of the operation enabled thousands of Pakistani Muslims to fulfil one of Islam’s fundamental religious obligations through an organized and centrally coordinated system.
The latest figures underscore the scale of Pakistan’s Hajj operation and highlight the government’s role in facilitating one of the world’s largest annual religious gatherings.
