LAHORE: Pakistan Ulema Council, Darul Ifta Pakistan and the International Tazeem-i-Haramain Sharifain Council have issued a comprehensive code of conduct for Haj and Umrah pilgrims, urging strict adherence to Saudi regulations and preservation of the sanctity of the holy sites.

The guidelines were announced at a press conference here by Chairman of the Pakistan Ulema Council and Secretary General of the Council, Hafiz Muhammad Tahir Mahmood Ashrafi, along with prominent scholars and religious leaders.

Ashrafi emphasised that pilgrims must respect the sanctity of the Two Holy Mosques and fully comply with the rules and regulations issued by Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Haj and Umrah.

He said performing Haj without a valid permit is both religiously impermissible and illegal, urging those residing in Saudi Arabia to avoid undertaking Haj without official authorisation.

Pilgrims were also urged to avoid engaging in political activities during Haj and not to become part of any such efforts, warning that such actions could disrupt the peaceful environment of the holy sites.

The code further cautioned against booking travel through unregistered or unauthorised Haj and Umrah operators, including informal online groups.

The scholars urged pilgrims to strictly follow the instructions of their group leaders, particularly during movement between Mina, Arafat and Muzdalifah, and to avoid haste that could lead to accidents.

The code clearly warned against illegal activities, including begging and carrying narcotics in Saudi Arabia, describing them as serious crimes.

Pilgrims were also advised to avoid rumours, maintain discipline and immediately inform group leaders of any suspicious or disruptive activities.

Published in Dawn, April 20th, 2026