Deadline for Private Hajj 2026 Bookings Extended: Everything Pilgrims Need to Know

The Ministry of Religious Affairs has officially extended the deadline for Private Hajj 2026 bookings. This announcement comes as thousands of seats remain unfilled under the Private Hajj Scheme. The new deadline gives applicants and approved Hajj operators more time to secure their spots for this important spiritual journey.

If you’re planning to perform Hajj 2026, this guide will explain what the deadline extension means, how to book, and what steps to follow to avoid scams or delays.

Why the Private Hajj Deadline Was Extended

Originally, the booking deadline for Private Hajj 2026 was October 17, 2025. However, with over 4,500 seats still available, the Ministry decided to give applicants an extra five days. The new deadline is now October 22, 2025.

The goal of this extension is to:

• Give approved Hajj operators more time to complete bookings.

• Ensure that all 60,000 seats under the private scheme are utilized.

• Help applicants who faced delays in documentation or payment.

• Support last year’s leftover applicants to secure priority bookings.

Keyword focus: Private Hajj 2026, Hajj booking extension, Ministry of Religious Affairs Pakistan, Hajj operators

How Many Seats Are Still Available?

According to the Ministry, 55,500 bookings have already been confirmed under the private scheme. That means 4,500 seats are still open for aspiring pilgrims.

These seats are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so applicants are encouraged to complete their booking before the new deadline.

Breakdown of Private Scheme Bookings

• Total seats: 60,000

• Booked so far: 55,500

• Available seats: 4,500

This shows that interest in the private scheme is high, but there’s still an opportunity for late applicants to secure their place.

Ministry’s Advisory for All Hajj Applicants

The Ministry of Religious Affairs has also issued an important advisory to protect applicants from fraud or errors. Here are the steps you must follow before booking your Hajj:

1. Verify Approved Hajj Operators

Always check the official list of approved Hajj operators on the Ministry’s website. This ensures that your application is handled by a legally registered and reliable operator.

2. Pay Through Banking Channels Only

The Ministry has strictly instructed applicants to make payments through authorized banks. This step protects your money and provides a clear payment record.

3. Collect Receipts and Agreements

Always demand official receipts and a copy of the Hajj agreement. These documents serve as your legal proof in case of any dispute.

4. Cross-Check Your Data

After applying, log in to the Ministry’s website or use the Pak Hajj mobile app to cross-check your personal information and booking details.

Priority for Last Year’s Pilgrims

To make the process fair and transparent, the Ministry has also announced that 22,097 applicants who couldn’t perform Hajj last year are being re-registered with priority.

This means:

• These pilgrims don’t need to reapply from scratch.

• They will be automatically accommodated first.

• Private operators must submit affidavits confirming their re-registration.

In addition to these priority applicants, 37,903 new people are eligible to apply this year. The total quota remains 60,000, ensuring both new and previous applicants get a fair chance.

Private vs. Government Hajj Scheme 2026

While the Private Hajj 2026 bookings are still open, the Government Hajj Scheme 2026 has already closed — and it was oversubscribed.

Here’s a quick comparison:

The government scheme received 118,060 applications in just 17 days, proving its popularity due to lower costs. However, the private scheme offers more flexibility in travel plans, accommodation options, and service levels.

Hajj 2026 Estimated Costs and Payment Details

For the Government Hajj Scheme, applicants have already submitted 50% of the total cost. The remaining amount is due on November 1, 2025.

Experts estimate that:

• Hajj 2026 cost will be between PKR 1.15 million and PKR 1.25 million.

• Final cost may vary depending on region and travel duration.

• Private packages can be higher but offer more personalized services.

For Private Hajj, costs depend on the chosen operator and package, including flights, hotels, meals, transportation, and guidance.

Steps to Book Under Private Hajj 2026 Scheme

If you haven’t booked yet, you still have time. Follow these steps to secure your Hajj seat before October 22, 2025:

Step 1: Visit the Ministry’s Website

Go to the official website of the Ministry of Religious Affairs and check the list of approved private operators.

Step 2: Choose a Trusted Hajj Operator

Compare packages, services, and prices. Pick a licensed operator with a good track record.

Step 3: Complete Your Registration

Fill out the registration form with your personal details, passport information, and travel preferences.

Step 4: Make Payment Securely

Pay through a banking channel only and keep a copy of the receipt.

Step 5: Verify Your Data

Use the Ministry portal or Pak Hajj mobile app to confirm your booking and verify all details.

Digital Tools to Help Pilgrims

The Ministry is also promoting digital tools to make the process easier and more transparent:

• Pak Hajj Mobile App: Helps check application status, booking, and travel information.

• Online Portal: Offers complete access to the list of operators, guidelines, and deadlines.

• SMS Alerts: Keeps you updated on booking confirmation and important notifications.

Why Booking Early Matters

Even though the deadline has been extended, early booking is always the smarter choice. Here’s why:

• Better chances of getting your preferred package.

• Time to correct any errors in documentation.

• Less pressure as the travel season gets closer.

• Easier coordination with your operator and group.

Pro Tip: Don’t wait until the last day of the deadline. Complete your process at least a few days before to avoid any system delays or last-minute issues.

Important Tips for First-Time Pilgrims

If you’re performing Hajj for the first time, here are some practical tips to make your journey smoother:

• Choose an operator with good reviews and a valid license.

• Keep copies of all your documents with you and share with a trusted family member.

• Stay updated through the Ministry’s official announcements.

• Keep emergency contact numbers and your operator’s helpline saved.

What Happens After Booking?

Once your booking is confirmed, your operator will provide:

• Visa processing timeline

• Flight schedule and group details

• Accommodation plan in Makkah and Madinah

• Guidance sessions or orientation programs

Make sure you attend these sessions as they help you understand the rituals, logistics, and health precautions for Hajj.

Beware of Scams and Fake Operators

Every year, some people fall prey to unauthorized agents offering fake packages. To protect yourself:

• Only book through Ministry-approved operators.

• Don’t make payments in cash without receipts.

• Verify your operator’s name and license number.

• Report any suspicious activity to the Ministry helpline.

Final Words: A Golden Opportunity for Pilgrims

The extension of the Private Hajj 2026 booking deadline is a great opportunity for those who couldn’t register earlier. With 4,500 seats still available, now is the time to act fast, secure your place, and prepare for this once-in-a-lifetime spiritual journey.

Whether you choose the Private Scheme for flexibility or the Government Scheme for affordability, the most important thing is to follow official guidelines, book safely, and plan ahead.