Saudi Arabia tightens biometric verification for Pakistani Hajj visitors

Saudi Arabia Announces Biometric Deadline for Pakistani Pilgrims

As Saudi Arabia prepares for the annual Hajj pilgrimage under its Vision 2030 vision to improve services and enhance comfort for pilgrims, it has set a strict deadline of February 8 for biometric verification. Intending Hajj pilgrims have been instructed to complete this through the Saudi Visa Bio app by that date.

The Ministry of Religious Affairs announced this requirement, cautioning that Hajj visas will not be issued without biometric data in place. A ministry spokesperson explained that using the mobile application allows residents to verify their fingerprints from home, avoiding potential crowds and inconvenience at registration centers. It’s also advised that applicants keep a secure copy of their confirmation email.

To accommodate those who prefer or require assistance, Tasheer centres will remain open on Saturdays and Sundays from 9 AM until 5 PM. Those over the age of 80 have been exempted from this requirement, though all others must undergo biometric verification to obtain their visas.

Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia has begun issuing Hajj visas globally starting February 8th. According to The Saudi Gazette, these early launches are part of an accelerated timeline meant to provide services and ensure pilgrims’ comfort well in advance of the rituals—approximately four months prior.

So far, nearly 750,000 pilgrims have registered for Hajj 2026. About 30,000 packages have been booked directly from home countries, with over 485 camps allocated at holy sites and 73 Hajj affairs offices completing contractual arrangements in line with the Saudi schedule.

In Pakistan, Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousaf reported that registration has reached a total of 119,000 government pilgrims and 60,000 private individuals. The minister emphasized ongoing preparations aligned with the Saudi timeline, including arrangements for food, transport, and other services through a competitive process.

Pilgrimage organizers have noted that 75% of Pakistani pilgrims received refunds worth Rs3.5 billion during Hajj 2025, ranging from Rs12,000 to Rs110,000 per person. The Federal Minister also announced training sessions at 147 locations nationwide to ensure discipline and readiness among the upcoming pilgrims.

In summary, Saudi Arabia is making significant strides towards easing preparation for Hajj 2026 by setting clear deadlines and optimizing services under Vision 2030, ensuring a more comfortable and efficient journey for both national and international pilgrims.