Pakistan's government Hajj scheme for the 2027 season has reached full capacity, with all state-allocated seats now reserved, prompting authorities to direct remaining applicants and overseas Pakistanis toward the private Hajj scheme. According to Hajj Reporters, the Ministry of Religious Affairs confirmed on September 25 that the 107,526 seats set aside under the government scheme had been fully booked through its online system.

The development marks an early close to one side of Pakistan's Hajj registration process, which opened in June 2026. Intending pilgrims who missed the government allocation are being encouraged to secure places through licensed private operators before the applicable deadlines lapse.

How the Quota Is Divided

Saudi Arabia has allocated Pakistan a total quota of 179,210 pilgrims for the 2027 Hajj. Under the arrangement set by the Ministry of Religious Affairs, this figure is split between two channels. The government scheme accounts for 60 percent of the total, or 107,526 seats, while the private scheme holds the remaining 40 percent, equal to 71,684 seats.

With the government portion now exhausted, the private scheme represents the primary route still available to prospective pilgrims. Reports indicate that demand within the private channel has also been strong. According to Hajj Reporters, the Maktab B and Maktab C package tiers offered by private operators have sold out, leaving only Maktab A packages available with a limited number of seats.

Guidance for Overseas Pakistanis

The Ministry of Religious Affairs has placed particular emphasis on overseas Pakistanis, who remain eligible to register despite the closure of the government scheme at home. Pakistani nationals living abroad who hold valid passports can apply through the Pak Hajj mobile application or the official web portal.

Authorities have set November 20, 2026 as the final date for overseas Pakistanis to select and pay for private Hajj packages through official channels. The ministry has urged applicants to complete all transactions strictly through the official Hajj Portal or the Pak Hajj App. Direct payments to individuals or companies outside the approved system are discouraged, a measure intended to protect pilgrims from fraud and unregulated arrangements.

A Fully Digital Process

The 2027 scheme was introduced by Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousaf as an end-to-end digital system. "The entire process of Hajj 2027 has been digitalised end-to-end," the minister stated when unveiling the plan, which was developed in cooperation with the Ministry of Information Technology and the National IT Board.

Under the government scheme, two package options were made available. A 40-day package was priced at Rs1.2 million, while a shorter package of 20 to 25 days was set at Rs1.3 million. Applicants were required to deposit 50 percent of their selected package cost upfront to confirm a seat, with the first installment collection beginning in mid-August and a second installment due in early October.

The digital model allows applicants to complete their applications, pay dues, and access services from home, reducing the need for in-person visits. Payments can be made through multiple methods linked to the official banking partner.

What Pilgrims Should Do Next

For those still hoping to perform Hajj in 2027, prompt action is essential given the limited seats remaining. Prospective pilgrims are advised to consider the following practical steps:

  • Act before the deadline: Overseas Pakistanis should complete private package selection and payment before November 20, 2026, as seats are filling quickly.
  • Use official channels only: Register and pay exclusively through the Pak Hajj App or the official Hajj Portal, and avoid handing money directly to individuals or unverified agents.
  • Check package availability: With Maktab B and C tiers reported sold out, applicants should confirm current availability under Maktab A before committing.
  • Verify operator licensing: Confirm that any private Hajj operator is officially registered with the Ministry of Religious Affairs before making a booking.
  • Keep documents ready: Ensure passports remain valid and that any required medical and biometric steps are completed in line with Saudi entry rules for the 2027 season.

The filling of the government quota underscores the sustained demand for Hajj among Pakistani Muslims and the importance of early registration. As preparations for the 2027 season continue, pilgrims are encouraged to monitor official ministry channels for further updates on payment schedules, documentation, and travel arrangements.