The Times of India

Hajj 2026 shock: Why has Egypt ended free pilgrimage trips? New visa rules, lottery, paid packages introduced

Egypt is ending state-funded free Hajj slots for 2026, shifting to a digital lottery for approximately 12,000 pilgrims and licensed paid packages. This move reflects economic reforms and aims for transparency in managing the pilgrimage. Ordinary Egyptians will now rely on these new systems rather than government subsidies for their spiritual journey.