Saudi Arabia has introduced a new rule for Hajj 2026. It bans children under 15 years of age from joining the pilgrimage. The policy aims to improve safety and crowd control during the world’s largest annual gathering.
Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority announced that the restriction starts from May 3, 2026. All Hajj visas issued to children below this age will be cancelled. Airlines have been directed not to allow underage passengers on Hajj flights. Families affected by this change will get full refunds, according to Saudi guidelines.
Hajj involves long walks, extreme heat, and huge crowds. Officials believe young children face higher risks of heat exhaustion, dehydration, and injury. This decision helps protect them and makes the pilgrimage smoother for all pilgrims. Similar age limits were applied in previous years for safety reasons.
Many Pakistani families plan Hajj together, so this news brings disappointment. However, the Saudi authorities stress that pilgrim safety comes first. Pilgrims are advised to check official updates from Pakistan’s Ministry of Religious Affairs or Saudi Hajj portals before travel.
This step shows Saudi Arabia’s focus on managing millions of pilgrims responsibly each year.
