New Umrah Rules in Pakistan: Ministry Announces Major Changes for Pilgrims

The new Umrah rules in Pakistan 2026 have officially announced as the Ministry of Religious Affairs issued a notification introducing major reforms to improve transparency, accountability, and the protection of Umrah pilgrims.

The notification states that only registered and verified Umrah companies authorized by the Ministry of Religious Affairs will now allowed to offer Umrah services. The decision comes after the enactment of the Hajj and Umrah Act 2024 transferring the authority on all matters concerning Umrah to the ministry.

Only Registered Umrah Companies Can Offer Services

The new Umrah policy will require pilgrims to travel with an official verified company by the Ministry of Religious Affairs for the Umrah package. The ministry will release the full list of approved Umrah operators on its official website, which will make it easier for pilgrims to identify approved operators.

Officials have cautioned people to avoid the financial losses or any disputes that might arise after arranging an Umrah through an unregistered Umrah operator, which will not be the responsibility of the ministry.

Special Committee Formed for New Umrah Policy

The Ministry of Religious Affairs has constituted a Special Umrah Policy Committee as a step towards improving the Umrah system. The committee will headed by the Additional Secretary of the ministry and will comprise representatives from the Ministry of Interior, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Law and the Cabinet Division.

The committee will design and execute a complete new Umrah policy for better management of Umrah operations in Pakistan.

Umrah Package Payments Through Banking Channels

The notification also stipulates that all payments for an Umrah package must done via official banking avenues. All pilgrims have asked to keep all receipts, agreements, and other documents in their possession as evidence of payment in case of any future dispute.

These measures will lead to better financial transparency and protect the interests of Umrah pilgrims, the ministry said.

Purpose of the New Umrah Rules

The new rules of the Umrah in Pakistan design to ensure transparency and accountability in the Umrah system and to prevent pilgrims from getting cheat by fraudulent operators. The government will also ensure that consumer protection is enhanced and that the quality of service is improved by restricting services for Umrah to registered companies and by implementing safe payment methods.