ISLAMABAD: Around 84,000 intending pilgrims have deposited the first instalment of Hajj 2027 dues through the newly launched digital system under the government scheme, with the short Hajj package’s allocation being filled on the first day, the Ministry of Religious Affairs said.
According to the ministry’s spokesperson, Rs52.5 billion has so far been collected through the three payment channels available on the Pak Hajj App and Hajj Portal.
The digital system was launched this week as part of the government’s move towards end-to-end digitalisation of Hajj arrangements, allowing registered pilgrims to complete their applications and make payments without visiting a bank.
Short package quota filled on first day
The spokesperson said only around 23,500 seats remain under the long Hajj package, while the allocation of 30,000 seats for the short package was completed on the first day.
Intending pilgrims seeking to perform Hajj under the government scheme have been advised to complete their personal details, application and payment formalities on the Hajj Portal at the earliest.
The ministry said the booking process would be closed once the required number of applications for the 40-day Hajj package is reached. Pilgrims will be accommodated on a first-come, first-served basis.
The new Hajj Management System integrates application submission, document verification, payment and application tracking into a single digital platform.
The system also links relevant institutions, including the Ministry of Religious Affairs, Habib Bank and the Passport Office, with passport details being verified digitally.
It may be recalled that the ministry had earlier announced that Hajj 2027 dues would be collected in two equal instalments, with the first instalment payable at the time of application.
The latest collection figures indicate that a substantial number of registered pilgrims have already completed the first payment stage through the digital mechanism.
