Saudi Arabia bans children under 15 from performing Hajj

ISLAMABAD – Saudi Arabia has introduced a new policy imposing an age restriction for Hajj, banning children under the age of 15 from accompanying pilgrims. A spokesperson for the Pakistan Aviation Authority (PAA) said that the new Saudi directive will come into effect from May 3, 2026. Under the policy, pilgrims below the age of 15 will not be allowed to travel on Hajj flights. The spokesperson said that following the implementation of the restriction, all Hajj visas issued to pilgrims under 15 years of age have been cancelled. Additionally, individuals who will not have turned 15 by May 27, 2026, will not be eligible to travel to Saudi Arabia for Hajj. Saudi immigration authorities have directed all airports to ensure that underage pilgrims are stopped from boarding Hajj flights. The Saudi government has also assured that all affected pilgrims will receive full refunds. The PAA reiterated that, in line with the new Saudi guidelines, children under 15 will not be permitted to undertake the pilgrimage this year, and airlines and airport authorities have been instructed to strictly enforce the policy.