Banks Extend Hours to Receive Hajj 2026 Applications
KARACHI — The State Bank of Pakistan has announced extended working hours for designated bank branches to facilitate Hajj 2026 applicants. From now until August 16, these branches will remain open from 9:00 am to 2:30 pm to receive application forms.
The move follows a request from the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, aimed at making the process easier for those unable to visit banks during regular hours.
According to official figures, Pakistan has so far received 91,300 applications under the government’s Hajj 2026 scheme. With more than 37,000 seats still available, aspiring pilgrims can apply either online or at designated bank branches nationwide.
The ministry has warned that applications will close immediately once the quota is filled. This year’s government scheme offers two packages — a long stay of 38–42 days and a short stay of 20–25 days — priced between Rs1.15 million and Rs1.25 million. Applicants must pay an initial installment of Rs500,000 or Rs550,000, depending on the package, with the remaining balance due from November 1.
Overseas Pakistanis holding a valid Pakistani passport are also eligible to apply. Under the current policy, 70 percent of the Hajj quota is allocated to the government scheme and 30 percent to private tour operators.
Pakistan’s overall quota for Hajj 2026 stands at 179,210 pilgrims — 119,210 under the government scheme and 60,000 through private operators — subject to final approval from Saudi authorities.
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