Hajj 2027: New application schemes and accommodation rules announced

Preparations for the 2027 Hajj pilgrimage are underway, with new application processes in Pakistan and updated accommodation regulations in Saudi Arabia.

The Pakistani Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony has opened applications for both government and private Hajj schemes. The government offers two options: a long scheme lasting 38 to 42 days priced at Rs1.2 million, and a short scheme lasting 20 to 25 days priced at Rs1.3 million. Additional fees apply for room upgrades, such as Rs270,000 for double-bed rooms in Makkah and Madinah. Applications for the government scheme are set to begin on August 18, 2026, via designated banks or online systems.

In Saudi Arabia, the Tourism Ministry has introduced updated classification standards and a new schedule of violations for accommodation facilities in Mecca and Medina. Facilities will be categorized into economy and first-class tiers, with specific requirements for safety, maintenance, and service continuity. To ensure compliance, providers will undergo multi-stage inspections before licensing, before operations begin, and during the Hajj period.