The Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony has extended the booking deadline for private Hajj applications under the Private Hajj Scheme 2026 to October 22, moving it from the earlier date of October 17.

According to a notification issued by the ministry on Friday, all “Munazzims” have been directed to complete the booking process for pilgrims within the extended period in line with the Hajj Policy and Plan 2026.

A total of 60,000 seats have been allocated for private Hajj bookings this year, out of which 55,500 applications have already been received.

This leaves around 4,500 seats still open for prospective pilgrims.

A spokesperson for the ministry urged intending pilgrims to verify the list of approved Hajj companies available on the ministry’s official website and to ensure that payments are made only through official banking channels into the accounts of approved operators.

He further advised applicants to obtain a copy of their Hajj agreement and a computerised receipt after completing the booking process.