Pakistan’s Religious Affairs Minister Sardar Yousaf has announced that the Hajj cost for 2026 may be reduced after a Saudi company offered a lower price to serve Pakistani pilgrims. The move aims to make the government’s Hajj package more affordable and transparent.
Under the current plan, the Hajj cost ranges between Rs. 1.15 million and Rs. 1.25 million ($4,049–$4,236), depending on final deals with Saudi service providers. Yousaf said the estimated figure includes a safety margin for any additional expenses. He added that if any savings are made, they will be refunded to pilgrims.
According to ministry officials, five Saudi firms were shortlisted out of 19 bidders for next year’s arrangements.
Al-Rajhi, which serves foreign pilgrims in Mina, Arafat and Muzdalifah, offered the lowest bid, 2,635 riyals ($702) per person, compared to 2,875 riyals ($766) this year. The company was praised for providing air-conditioned tents and sofa beds for Pakistani pilgrims in 2025.
Religious Affairs Secretary Dr. Syed Ata-ur-Rahman said that the company’s performance received positive feedback, even from the prime minister. He confirmed that around 66,000 pilgrims received Rs. 3.45 billion in refunds this year after costs came in lower than expected.
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“If there are any savings, they belong to the pilgrims,” the minister said, expressing hope that next year’s arrangements would be even better. “Hajj is a sacred responsibility, and we are working to make it smoother and more transparent for everyone.”
