The Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony has introduced a new Ziarat booking system for Pakistani pilgrims traveling to Iran and Iraq, marking a significant step toward improving the organization and regulation of religious travel.

Under the newly introduced Ziyarat Policy 2026, pilgrims intending to visit holy sites in Iran and Iraq will now be required to make their travel arrangements exclusively through government-approved Ziarat Group Organizers (ZGOs). The ministry says the new framework is designed to enhance transparency, improve service quality, and ensure better protection for pilgrims.

According to the ministry, a total of 262 Ziarat Group Organizers have been officially registered under the new policy. These licensed organizers will be responsible for handling bookings, travel arrangements, accommodation, transportation, and other services related to Ziarat journeys.

Officials said the move aims to streamline the pilgrimage process while eliminating unauthorized operators that have previously created difficulties for travelers. By limiting bookings to approved organizers, the government hopes to ensure that pilgrims receive standardized services and reliable assistance throughout their journey.

The new system is also expected to strengthen oversight of religious travel by introducing greater accountability among tour operators. Registered ZGOs will be required to comply with government regulations and maintain service standards established under the Ziyarat Policy 2026.

Every year, thousands of Pakistani pilgrims travel to Iran and Iraq to visit revered religious sites. The Ministry believes that regulating the booking process through licensed operators will make travel more organized, secure, and efficient while reducing the risk of fraud and unauthorized travel arrangements.

The initiative reflects the government’s broader efforts to modernize religious travel management and improve the overall experience for pilgrims. Authorities have encouraged intending travelers to verify that their chosen Ziarat Group Organizer is among the ministry’s approved list before making any payments or finalizing travel plans.

Pilgrims are also advised to stay updated on official announcements regarding travel requirements, documentation, and operational guidelines issued by the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony. Compliance with the new booking system will be mandatory for those planning Ziarat visits under the new policy.

The launch of the Ziyarat Policy 2026 is expected to bring greater confidence to religious travelers by promoting transparency, accountability, and better coordination between the government and licensed tour operators. As implementation begins, officials hope the new framework will provide Pakistani pilgrims with a smoother and more secure pilgrimage experience.