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Saudi Arabia Sets Minimum Age Limit of 15 Years for Hajj Pilgrims

Saudi Arabia has set 15 years as the minimum age for Hajj pilgrims, restricting entry of younger children and implementing the rule from May 3, 2026, amid new travel directives.
2026-05-02
Saudi Arabia Sets Minimum Age Limit of 15 Years for Hajj Pilgrims

Saudi Arabia has officially introduced a new regulation setting the minimum age for Hajj pilgrims at 15 years, according to directives shared with participating countries’ religious authorities.

The decision, issued by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, states that no pilgrim under the age of 15 will be allowed to travel for Hajj starting from May 3, 2026. Airlines and Hajj operators have been instructed to strictly enforce the rule, ensuring that all passengers meet the age requirement before departure.

The move is part of broader safety and crowd management measures during the annual pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia, which hosts millions of Muslims from around the world each year for Hajj.

Officials have also clarified that any affected pilgrims who are unable to travel due to this restriction will be eligible for a full refund of their deposited Hajj expenses. The directive has been communicated to all relevant authorities, including Hajj operators and airline services, for immediate implementation.

The age restriction is aimed at improving safety conditions during the pilgrimage, which often involves extreme weather, large crowds, and physically demanding rituals.