Saudi Arabia has recently introduced a new age limitation for Hajj pilgrims, prohibiting anyone under 15 years old from traveling for Hajj. This announcement was made by the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) on Saturday, emphasizing that the new rule is effective immediately.
Details of the Age Restriction
The new regulation specifies that any pilgrim aged under 15 as of May 27, 2026 — which corresponds to the Day of Arafat (9th Zulhijjah 1447 AH) — is not permitted to travel to Saudi Arabia for the Hajj pilgrimage. The PAA has instructed all associated authorities at airports in Pakistan, including immigration officials, to strictly adhere to this directive. As a result, visas granted to those under this age limit have been rendered null and void.
Refund Policies for Affected Pilgrims
With this regulation in place, Saudi authorities have informed that travelers affected by this age limitation may cancel their Hajj plans and receive a full refund of their payments. The PAA advised that all airlines and Hajj operators promptly communicate this policy to comply with the new regulations. This is an essential measure to ensure smooth travel arrangements for pilgrims.
In a related notification, the Director of Hajj at the Office of Pilgrim Affairs Pakistan (OPAP), Muhammad Aslam Arif Rao, noted a discussion with Abdullah Al Shehri, the Director General of Hajj at Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. Al Shehri confirmed that the age restriction would be enforced 24 hours post-midnight on May 3, meaning no flight from any nation would be allowed to carry pilgrims younger than 15 years.
Implementation of the Age Limit
The OPAP highlighted the importance of disseminating this information among group leaders and recommends that those unable to fulfill the requirements due to the age limitation are allowed to cancel their intentions for Hajj. It is vital for all immigration personnel at Pakistani airports to be promptly informed and comply with the prohibition on underage pilgrims boarding flights.
Additionally, the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony’s Hajj IT Cell has called for immediate enforcement of this age restriction across all Hajj Directorates, Hajj Organizers Association of Pakistan (HOAP), and airlines functioning within this context.
This step by Saudi Arabia highlights the necessity for compliance not only for ensuring order but also for the welfare of all pilgrims intending to participate in this significant religious observance. Through these updates, Saudi authorities aim to streamline procedures and guarantee that all pilgrims meet the required criteria for a smooth Hajj experience.