Modern Training Program for Hajj. In a significant move to ensure the smoothest and safest Hajj experience for Pakistani pilgrims in 2026, the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony has successfully completed the first phase of a 10-day modern training program for Khuddam-ul-Hujjaj (Hajj support staff). This initiative represents a major shift from traditional briefings to structured technical and operational training, aimed at enhancing on-ground support for pilgrims in Saudi Arabia.
The program was designed after studying international best practices from countries like Indonesia, Turkey, and Malaysia. The Ministry’s goal is to prepare the support staff to manage real-time challenges effectively, ensuring that every pilgrim receives prompt and professional assistance during their journey.
Focus on Technical Training for Support Staff
For the first time, Khuddam-ul-Hujjaj were trained using digital maps developed by the Survey of Pakistan, allowing them to guide pilgrims with high accuracy. Experts instructed participants on how to read maps through smartphones and PowerPoint presentations, a modern approach designed to enhance navigation and operational efficiency.
In addition, Rescue 1122 conducted practical exercises in CPR and emergency medical aid, while Islamabad Police provided modules on crowd management. These trainings aim to ensure that staff can respond quickly and effectively in case of emergencies or large gatherings at pilgrimage sites.
Objectives of the Training Program
The primary objective of this program is to provide immediate and professional support to pilgrims at key holy sites including Makkah, Madinah, Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah. By equipping Khuddam-ul-Hujjaj with modern tools and knowledge, the Ministry hopes to enhance safety, comfort, and efficiency for all pilgrims throughout their journey.
Zulfiqar Khan, Coordinator for Makkah and Khuddam-ul-Hujjaj, stated that the training modules were developed after studying global benchmarks. He emphasized that experts from the Survey of Pakistan trained staff in digital navigation techniques, significantly improving their ability to provide precise guidance on the ground.
Two-Phase Training Structure
The training program is divided into two phases:
- Joint Training Phase – The first phase, recently completed, covered general operational training, emergency response, and basic digital navigation skills for all Khuddam-ul-Hujjaj.
- Functional Level Specialized Training – The upcoming phase focuses on role-specific training for teams managing food, transport, and accommodations. This specialized training is intended to prepare staff to handle any crisis efficiently and maintain smooth operations.
Ensuring Transparency and Accountability
To maintain high standards of accountability, the Ministry conducted online quizzes at the end of each session. Over 500 participants achieved perfect scores, demonstrating their understanding of key operational procedures.
Additionally, the training included road management sessions and basic Arabic language courses conducted through the International Islamic University, helping Khuddam-ul-Hujjaj communicate effectively with pilgrims and local staff in Saudi Arabia.
Inclusion of Female Assistants
For the first time, a significant number of female assistants have been included in the program to ensure comprehensive support for all pilgrims. Assistants were provided with a digital overview of Mina’s roads, bridges, and Jamarat routes, ensuring they are fully aware of camp locations and zones before the pilgrims’ departure.
Nazim Scheme Initiative
Under the new Nazim Scheme, one supervisor will accompany a group of 188 pilgrims on the same flight from Pakistan and remain with them throughout their stay. Supervisors are responsible for managing daily worship routines, travel between holy sites, and the return journey, ensuring that pilgrims have a seamless and organized experience.
High-Speed Travel Between Madinah and Makkah
As part of a pilot project, 23,000 Pakistani pilgrims will travel between Madinah and Makkah via high-speed train in just two hours. Khuddam-ul-Hujjaj have received special training in platform management to assist pilgrims during this transition, ensuring a smooth and safe boarding process.
Managing Shuttle Services
The training program also covered management of the 24/7 “Saloat” shuttle service, which transports pilgrims from their accommodations to various drop-off points near the Haram for daily prayers. This training ensures that shuttle operations run efficiently, reducing waiting times and congestion.
Selection and Deployment of Khuddam-ul-Hujjaj
A total of 870 Khuddam-ul-Hujjaj were selected through a competitive process to serve in transport, food, and accommodation sectors during Hajj 2026. Their deployment has been carefully planned to ensure optimal support across all key locations, maintaining a high standard of service and safety for pilgrims.
Conclusion
The modern training program for Khuddam-ul-Hujjaj represents a transformative step in Pakistan’s Hajj preparation for 2026. With digital navigation, emergency response training, crowd management skills, and functional role-specific preparation, this initiative ensures that Pakistani pilgrims will receive professional, safe, and efficient assistance throughout their sacred journey. The inclusion of female assistants, the Nazim Scheme, and high-speed travel arrangements further reflect a holistic and modern approach to pilgrimage management.
