Pakistan and Saudi Arabia sign agreement on Hajj 2026 arrangements


People suffering from certain chronic or contagious diseases will not be allowed to participate in the pilgrimage.

The Holy Kabah. PHOTO: REUTERS

Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have formally signed an agreement on arrangements and facilities for the upcoming Hajj. Radio Pakistan reported.

Saudi Deputy Minister for Hajj and Umrah Dr. Abdulfattah Bin Sulaiman Mashat and Pakistani Ministry of Religious Affairs Secretary Dr. Syed Ata-ur-Rehman signed the agreement in Jeddah.

Dr. Syed Ata-ur-Rehman expressed his gratitude for the excellent efforts of the Saudi government in hosting and providing facilities to the guests of Allah. He said that like last year, Pakistani pilgrims will be provided with high-quality services this year.

The secretary further expressed the determination of the Ministry of Religious Affairs to complete arrangements for both government and private Hajj plans in a timely and effective manner, in accordance with the guidelines of the Saudi government.

Pakistan and Saudi Arabia formally signed an agreement on arrangements and facilities for Hajj 2026. Photo: Radio Pakistan

Pakistan and Saudi Arabia formally signed an agreement on arrangements and facilities for Hajj 2026. Photo: Radio Pakistan

Saudi Arabia issues health conditions for Hajj 2026 pilgrims

The Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony has announced the medical eligibility conditions for Pakistani pilgrims wishing to perform Hajj in 2026, as per the Saudi government’s health guidelines.

According to the ministry, people suffering from certain chronic or contagious diseases will not be allowed to perform the pilgrimage. The decision aligns with Saudi Arabia’s preventive health measures to ensure the safety and well-being of all pilgrims.

The ministry has clarified that people suffering from serious heart diseases, kidney failure, liver cirrhosis, advanced-stage cancer, Alzheimer’s disease or dementia are not eligible for Hajj 2026.

In addition, those diagnosed with infectious or contagious diseases such as open pulmonary tuberculosis or viral hemorrhagic fever (VHF) will also be prohibited from traveling.

The ministry urged applicants to undergo comprehensive medical examinations and provide accurate health information to avoid complications during the selection process.

In its advisory, the ministry highlighted that health certificates will be mandatory and any false declaration regarding medical status could lead to disqualification.

Ministry of Religious Affairs Pakistan/ X

Ministry of Religious Affairs Pakistan/ X

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