Key Takeaways
- The federal cabinet approved a comprehensive four-year Haj policy for 2027–2030.
- Key changes include uninterrupted registration and the introduction of Shariah-compliant savings schemes.
- Haj management is being digitized, with separate quotas for government and private schemes.
The federal cabinet has approved a new four-year Haj policy aimed at improving services for pilgrims. The policy, which will run from 2027 to 2030, was presented to the cabinet by Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousaf and his ministry’s team.
Under the new framework, prospective pilgrims will no longer need to register annually. Instead, they can register at any time until 2030, allowing for uninterrupted preparation according to their preference. This change is expected to facilitate the creation of a priority waiting list, ensuring smoother planning and execution of Haj journeys.
To support financial planning, a Shariah-compliant Haj savings scheme will be introduced. This initiative allows individuals to save in advance for their future pilgrimage, providing greater flexibility and security for those intending to undertake the holy journey.
The Haj management system is also undergoing significant digitization. Digital payment mechanisms, a digital complaints management system, and digital monitoring tools are being implemented to enhance operational efficiency and transparency. These changes aim to streamline processes and improve service delivery for pilgrims.
Separate quotas have been allocated for government and private Haj schemes, as well as long- and short-duration Haj packages. Mandatory training for pilgrims is also part of the policy, along with provisions for Takaful (Islamic insurance) and emergency response services. These measures are designed to ensure a safer and more organized pilgrimage experience.
The cabinet has directed that Haj assistants be appointed through a transparent, merit-based process. Third-party validation of both government and private operators will also be ensured, ensuring high standards in service delivery.
In other developments, the federal cabinet approved the outsourcing policy for the Isolation Hospital and Infectious Treatment Centre (IHITC) and the Regional Blood Centre (RBC) in Islamabad. This decision aims to ensure quality healthcare services for citizens through a competitive process.
The meeting also received a briefing from Railways Minister Hanif Abbasi on the performance of Pakistan Railways (PR). The minister reported that PR’s revenue increased by 24.1 per cent from Rs95 billion in FY 2024–25 to over Rs115 billion in FY 2025–26, reflecting significant improvements in freight and passenger services.
Addressing the meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed the government’s commitment to enhancing public services. He highlighted the importance of these policies in improving the overall experience for pilgrims and ensuring efficient operations across various sectors.
