Saudi Arabia Imposes Age Limit for Hajj, Bans Children Under 15 from Pilgrimage

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia has introduced a significant change to its Hajj policy, banning children under the age of 15 from performing the pilgrimage, with immediate effect.
According to media reports, the new policy prohibits any child below 15 years from undertaking Hajj. Authorities have issued directives to all airports to ensure that underage pilgrims are not allowed to board Hajj flights.
The Pakistan Airports Authority confirmed that the restriction will be formally enforced from May 2026. Airport staff have been instructed to strictly verify the age of passengers before departure.
In addition, Hajj visas issued to children under the age of three have been canceled. Officials stated that affected pilgrims will receive full refunds to mitigate the impact of the sudden policy change.
Following this decision, families traveling with young children will not be able to perform Hajj during the current season. Airlines and airport authorities have been directed to strictly implement the new guidelines.
The Pakistan Airports Authority noted that around 70 pilgrims from Karachi will be affected by the decision and have been assured full reimbursement.
Officials said the move is part of Saudi Arabia’s broader Hajj policy reforms for 2026, aimed at improving administrative efficiency and overall management of the pilgrimage.