ISLAMABAD: The Ministry of Religious Affairs has announced that comprehensive Hajj training sessions will begin across Pakistan starting January 1.
This decision was finalized during a meeting of the Hajj Training Subcommittee held at the ministry’s headquarters in Islamabad. Participation in this training is now compulsory for all intending pilgrims. The ministry stressed that attendance at these sessions must be strictly according to the scheduled timetable.
Details regarding the training schedule will be disseminated via the Pak-Hajj 2025 mobile application, the official ministry website, and through SMS notifications to ensure all pilgrims are informed.The purpose of these mandatory sessions is to equip pilgrims with the necessary knowledge of Hajj rituals and administrative procedures. The training will feature multimedia presentations led by experienced officials from Hajj camps, master trainers, and religious scholars.
Meanwhile, in line with health guidelines issued by the Saudi Ministry of Health, new medical restrictions have been introduced for Hajj 2026. The Saudi authorities have imposed a complete ban on pilgrims with certain health conditions. Specifically, individuals suffering from kidney failure or undergoing dialysis will be barred from performing Hajj in 2026. Additionally, pilgrims with lung or liver diseases, severe neurological or psychiatric disorders, memory impairments, or other chronic illnesses will also be restricted from undertaking the pilgrimage.
The Ministry of Religious Affairs confirmed that pilgrims with conditions such as pregnancy, whooping cough, tuberculosis, viral hemorrhagic fever, or cancer will not be permitted to perform Hajj in 2026. The Saudi authorities will conduct verification of medical certificates through monitoring teams to ensure accuracy and validity. Those deemed medically unfit will be prevented from traveling, with all associated expenses to be borne by the individuals.
The ministry also warned that doctors issuing false health certificates for unfit pilgrims will face legal consequences. Only candidates meeting the essential health criteria will be allowed to proceed with their Hajj journey, the ministry emphasized, highlighting the importance of ensuring the safety and well-being of all pilgrims.
