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The Government of Pakistan has announced a new travel system for Pakistani pilgrims (Zaireen) visiting Iran and Iraq, set to take effect from January 2026.
Following the directives of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the move aims to improve pilgrim safety and organization.
The decision was taken during a high-level meeting of the Special Task Force on pilgrims, chaired by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi which was also attended by Religious Affairs Minister Sardar Muhammad Yousaf, Overseas Pakistanis Minister Chaudhry Salik Hussain, and State Minister for Interior Talal Chaudhry.
A major decision was the abolishment of the traditional Salar System, which has long been used by Zaireen for travel arrangements.
Starting in 2026, only registered Zaireen Group Organizers will be permitted to arrange pilgrimage trips to Iraq and Iran.
The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) and other concerned departments have been tasked with preventing unauthorized individuals from entering Iraq under the cover of pilgrimage. The government has already received 1,413 applications for group organizer registration, and the process is underway.
The Pakistan Aviation Authority (PAA) briefed the task force that weekly flights to Iran have increased from 6 to 15. In preparation for the upcoming Arbaeen pilgrimage, 107 special flights are being arranged for Iraq, with additional expansions under review.
The government also plans to introduce new services to expand travel options for Zaireen. A decision regarding the resumption of land travel will be made after Ashura, depending on the regional security situation.
Interior Minister Naqvi emphasized that pilgrim safety and convenience remain the government’s top priority. The new travel system is expected to streamline pilgrimages and reduce risks for travelers heading to religious sites in the region.
