Saudi Arabia Sets 15-Year Minimum Age for Hajj Pilgrims

Saudi Arabia has implemented a new age restriction for the upcoming Hajj pilgrimage, setting the minimum age for pilgrims at 15 years. This decision, announced by the religious affairs ministry, aims to ensure the safety and well-being of all participants during the sacred journey. The directive stipulates that no flight departing from any country to Saudi Arabia will be permitted to carry pilgrims younger than 15, with the restriction taking effect from May 3, 2026.

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no flight departing from any country to Saudi Arabia shall be permitted to carry any pilgrim” under the age of 15 years (as of May 27, 2026 / Zilhaj 9, 1447 AH).

This measure is part of broader efforts by the Saudi government to manage the Hajj, one of the largest annual gatherings in the world, ensuring it proceeds smoothly and safely. The ministry has assured that any pilgrims who are unable to undertake the Hajj due to this new age requirement will receive a full refund of their deposited amount. This commitment to financial reimbursement aims to mitigate the impact on individuals who may have already made arrangements for their pilgrimage.

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The Government of Saudi Arabia has assured that all affected pilgrims will receive a full refund of the deposited amount.

Pakistani authorities, including the Haj Organisers Association of Pakistan (HAOP) and the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA), have been urged to implement these age restrictions immediately. The PAA has stated that visas for pilgrims under 15 will be treated as cancelled under this new policy. The 'Route to Makkah' initiative, which facilitates the arrival of pilgrims, has been expanded this year to include Lahore, in addition to Karachi and Islamabad, further streamlining the process for tens of thousands of pilgrims.

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No pilgrim under the age of 15 years will be allowed to board Hajj flights, and such visas shall be treated as cancelled under this policy.