In a bid to fill its Hajj quota, the Pakistani government has announced it will accept applications from unregistered pilgrims for this year’s pilgrimage, following unexpectedly low participation from registered applicants.

The Ministry of Religious Affairs, concerned that the allocated quota of 125,000 pilgrims may not be met despite 450,000 prior registrations, has opened the door for unregistered citizens to join the sacred journey. Applications for registered pilgrims under the government scheme will be accepted from August 4 to August 9, 2025. Unregistered individuals can apply from August 11 to August 16, 2025, on a first-come, first-served basis, prompting officials to urge swift submissions.

The government’s Hajj program includes two packages: a 38 to 42-day option requiring an initial payment of PKR 500,000, and a 20 to 25-day package with a first installment of PKR 550,000. Additionally, those who missed out on private Hajj schemes this year will receive priority for next year’s pilgrimage.

This move reflects the ministry’s efforts to ensure Pakistan fully utilizes its Hajj quota while accommodating as many pilgrims as possible for the annual spiritual journey.