16,000 Seats Still Available Under Private Hajj Scheme 2025. There is good news for Pakistani citizens planning to perform the sacred Hajj pilgrimage this year. According to sources cited by ARY News, around 16,000 seats are still available under Pakistan’s Private Hajj Scheme 2025.
Officials have confirmed that only four days remain before the booking window closes, urging interested pilgrims to finalize their registrations immediately. The Ministry of Religious Affairs’ online portal for private Hajj bookings will officially close on October 17, 2025, and all private Hajj operators have been directed to complete the registration process within this deadline.
Current Booking Status Under Private Hajj Scheme
So far, 44,000 pilgrims have successfully secured their bookings under the private scheme, leaving 16,000 spots still open for those who wish to take part in this sacred journey. The private operators started accepting applications on September 19, 2025, as part of the new quota of 60,000 pilgrims, which has been reduced from the previous limit of 90,000. This adjustment ensures a smoother management process and better accommodation arrangements for all pilgrims.
Priority for Deferred Pilgrims
The ministry also announced that 21,654 pilgrims who were unable to perform Hajj in previous years will now be accommodated this year. This inclusion gives priority to those who have been waiting for their turn, ensuring that deferred pilgrims are not left behind.
According to official statistics, 37,903 new pilgrims can now apply for Hajj 2026 under the private scheme, in addition to 22,097 individuals who were deferred last year and have been re-registered for priority processing. Private operators are required to submit affidavits confirming the inclusion of these deferred pilgrims before approving new applicants, maintaining transparency and fairness in the selection process.
Government Hajj Scheme 2026 Applications Completed
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Religious Affairs (MORA) has also completed the Government Hajj Scheme 2026 application phase. The ministry received 118,060 applications from across Pakistan, marking the end of the submission period.
This phase, which lasted 17 days, witnessed a strong public response despite being conducted on a first-come, first-served basis. Applicants could submit their applications through both online platforms and designated bank channels. To cater to different preferences, pilgrims were allowed to choose between short-duration and long-duration Hajj packages, depending on their budget and convenience.
Payment Details for Government Hajj Scheme
For the government scheme, applicants have already deposited 50 percent of the total cost as the first installment, while the remaining payment is scheduled to be due from November 1, 2025. Experts estimate that the total cost under the government Hajj Scheme ranges between PKR 1.15 million and PKR 1.25 million, depending on the applicant’s region and the length of stay in Saudi Arabia. This cost includes airfare, accommodation, and other essential arrangements, ensuring a safe and comfortable pilgrimage experience.
Why Private Hajj Scheme Remains Popular
The private Hajj scheme offers a significant opportunity for those unable to secure government quota seats. With 16,000 seats still open, interested pilgrims are encouraged to act fast to secure their spots. The private scheme has become increasingly popular due to its flexibility, priority for deferred pilgrims, and convenient booking process.
By completing their registration through official private operators before October 17, pilgrims can ensure participation in this spiritual journey without any last-minute complications.
Guidelines for Private Hajj Applicants
Experts advise potential applicants to carefully follow the instructions provided by private operators. Each operator is responsible for validating the applicant’s eligibility, submitting affidavits for deferred pilgrims, and ensuring that all required documentation is complete.
These steps are crucial to avoid delays or rejection of applications. Additionally, the ministry emphasizes that bookings are strictly limited to the allotted quota, and seats will not be extended beyond the deadline.
Key Features of Private Hajj Scheme 2025
The Private Hajj Scheme 2025 is structured to accommodate both new applicants and deferred pilgrims, maintaining a fair system that prioritizes transparency. Pilgrims who were previously unable to perform Hajj now have a dedicated opportunity to fulfill their religious obligations. Moreover, the online portal provided by the ministry makes the registration process straightforward, allowing pilgrims to complete their applications from the comfort of their homes.
Important Instructions for Applicants
It is important for all applicants to ensure that their personal information, CNIC details, and payment confirmations are accurate during registration. Any errors may cause delays or rejection of the application. Pilgrims are also encouraged to regularly check updates from the Ministry of Religious Affairs and private Hajj operators to stay informed about any changes or additional instructions.
Conclusion
The Private Hajj Scheme 2025 still offers 16,000 available seats for Pakistani pilgrims. Interested individuals should complete their registration immediately, as the portal will close on October 17, 2025. With proper planning, timely application, and adherence to guidelines, pilgrims can secure their seats and embark on this spiritual journey without worry.
The Government Hajj Scheme 2026 has also successfully concluded its application phase, highlighting strong public interest in performing Hajj. By prioritizing deferred pilgrims and providing clear instructions, the ministry ensures a smooth and organized process for all applicants.
