Cabinet approves haj policy 2027-2030

The federal cabinet has approved Pakistan's first comprehensive Haj Policy and Plan 2027-2030, introducing a long-

The federal cabinet has approved Pakistan’s first comprehensive Haj Policy and Plan 2027-2030, introducing a long-term framework to improve Haj management, expand digital services, and provide better facilities for pilgrims.

The decision was taken during a meeting of the federal cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Officials gave a detailed briefing on the new policy, explaining that it is designed to improve the overall Haj operation while ensuring transparency, efficiency, and better services for intending pilgrims.

Under the new policy, the entire Haj management system will be digitised. Online registration, digital payment facilities, complaint management, and monitoring systems will be introduced to make the process easier and more transparent for pilgrims. Authorities will also develop standard operating procedures and update them whenever required to remain in line with Saudi regulations.

The cabinet also approved the introduction of a Shariah-compliant Haj savings scheme. The initiative will allow people to save gradually for Haj, making it easier for aspiring pilgrims to bear the financial cost of the pilgrimage in the coming years.

According to the policy, citizens will be able to register for Haj in advance up to the year 2030. The advance registration system will help authorities prepare waiting lists and improve planning for future Haj operations.

The policy maintains separate quotas for the government and private Haj schemes. It also includes options for both long-stay and short-stay Haj packages, giving pilgrims greater flexibility when planning their journey.

The government has also made pilgrim training, Takaful arrangements, and emergency response mechanisms part of the new policy to improve safety and provide better support throughout the pilgrimage.

The cabinet directed that Haj assistants, known as Moavineen, should be appointed strictly on merit through a transparent selection process. It also instructed authorities to introduce independent third-party evaluation of both government and private Haj operations to ensure high service standards and greater accountability.

The cabinet appreciated the Ministry of Religious Affairs and its officials for successfully managing this year’s Haj arrangements and facilitating Pakistani pilgrims.

During the meeting, the cabinet also approved outsourcing services at Islamabad’s Isolation Hospital, Infectious Treatment Centre, and Regional Blood Centre to improve healthcare services and increase public access to quality medical facilities.