The Directorate General of Hajj in Madinah has implemented multiple revolutionary initiatives for the Hajj 2026 operations, driven by advanced technology, smart governance, and optimal financial strategies. For the first time, a newly introduced digital induction system has reduced the hotel room allotment process for pilgrims from hours to a matter of seconds.
These landmark measures include securing highly affordable accommodation within Madinah's central zone (Markazia) strictly under Ministry rates, slashing human resource (HR) costs from 17 SAR to 14 SAR per pilgrim, and allocating catering quotas purely based on performance.
Digital Skills Key to Economic Future
Director of Hajj Madinah, Zahid Sohail, told APP on Monday that a comprehensive logistic plan providing accommodation, quality food, city check-in, and transportation had been successfully operationalized for 46,945 pilgrims pre-Hajj and 72,271 pilgrims post-Hajj. Elaborating on the digital induction system developed by a Pakistani student at the Islamic University of Madinah, he highlighted that the computerized room allotment software had ensured significant HR savings and maximum transparency, allowing pilgrims to move directly to their rooms immediately upon arrival without any waiting lines.
Accommodation and Financial Measures
Regarding accommodation, the Pakistan Hajj Mission secured an inventory of 119,216 beds in the premium Markazia zone closest to the Prophet's Mosque, strictly within the designated Ministry rates of 1,200 SAR for the long package and 600 SAR for the short package. Alongside this, optimal financial measures reduced HR service costs to 14 SAR per pilgrim, achieving historic savings without compromising service quality.
Furthermore, catering quotas for 14 contracted companies were allocated performance-based, while 100 percent immediate grievance redressal is being ensured through digital 'Nusuk' cards and 24/7 medical assistance.
Federal Minister Applauds Efforts
Meanwhile, Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousaf highly lauded the initiatives taken by the Pakistan Hajj Mission in Madinah. He appreciated the successful procurement of 119,509 beds for Pakistani pilgrims in the Markazia area, the city check-in facility, and the groundbreaking digital system that allocates beds to pilgrims within seconds. Expressing deep satisfaction, the federal minister extended his heartiest commendations to the Director of Hajj Madinah and his team for their exemplary performance.
