Hajj 2026: India Launches First-Ever Short Hajj Package for Pilgrims: India has introduced a new “Short Hajj Package” for Hajj 2026, allowing selected pilgrims to complete the holy pilgrimage in nearly 20 days instead of the traditional 40–45 days. The special arrangement has been launched for the first time mainly to help working professionals and businesspersons who cannot stay away from work for a long period.
According to reports, around 10,000 Indian pilgrims will travel under this new category during Hajj 2026. Union Minister of State for Minority Affairs George Kurien flagged off the first short Hajj flight from Kochi airport on May 17.
What Is the Short Hajj Package?
The Short Hajj Package is a newly introduced pilgrimage option by the Haj Committee of India that reduces the stay duration in Saudi Arabia while keeping all important Hajj rituals unchanged. Pilgrims will still perform the mandatory religious duties, but their total travel period will be nearly half of the regular schedule. (
Usually, Indian pilgrims stay in Saudi Arabia for around 40 to 45 days during Hajj. Under the new plan, the journey can be completed in approximately 20 days.
Why Was This Package Introduced?
The government said the decision was taken after receiving feedback from professionals, office workers, and business owners who wanted a shorter pilgrimage option because of work commitments.
The new package is expected to make Hajj more accessible for people who previously found it difficult to manage a long absence from work or business activities.
Key Highlights of the Short Hajj Package
- First time introduced for Indian pilgrims
- Duration reduced from 40–45 days to around 20 days
- Around 10,000 pilgrims to travel under the scheme
- All important Hajj rituals will remain compulsory
- Flights planned from multiple Indian cities including Kochi, Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Chennai, Bengaluru, and Ahmedabad
About Hajj Pilgrimage
Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam and is performed annually in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. Muslims who are physically and financially capable are expected to perform Hajj at least once in their lifetime.
The pilgrimage includes rituals such as Tawaf around the Kaaba, prayers at Mount Arafat, and other acts of worship performed over several days.
Final Words
The launch of the Short Hajj Package for 2026 marks a major change for Indian pilgrims. By reducing the travel duration while preserving the religious rituals, the government aims to make Hajj easier for professionals and working individuals who struggle to spend over a month away from home and work.