Saudi Arabia has introduced a new rule setting 15 years as the minimum age for Hajj pilgrims. The decision applies to pilgrims performing Hajj this year, according to Pakistan’s Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony.
The ministry confirmed the update through an official letter issued on Saturday. It stated that the new directive has been shared by authorities in Saudi Arabia for all participating countries.
Under the new policy, no pilgrim under the age of 15 will be allowed to travel for Hajj. This rule will apply to all flights departing for Saudi Arabia from May 3, 2026.
The restriction will remain in effect from 12am on May 3, 2026. It is based on the Islamic calendar date Zilhaj 9, 1447 AH.
The ministry also clarified that airlines and Hajj operators must strictly follow the new instructions. All relevant departments, including the Hajj Organisers Association of Pakistan, have been directed to implement the rule immediately.
The Pakistan Airports Authority also confirmed the enforcement. It said that no pilgrim under 15 years of age will be allowed to board Hajj flights. Any visa issued to underage pilgrims will be considered invalid under the new policy.
The government of Saudi Arabia has also provided clarity on refunds. It assured that all affected pilgrims will receive a full refund of their deposited amounts. This applies to those who cancel their Hajj plans due to the age restriction.
Pilgrims who are unable to travel under the new rule have been given the option to cancel their journey. Authorities have advised affected individuals to follow official procedures for refunds and cancellations.
Separately, the Hajj 2026 operation has already begun under the Route to Makkah initiative. The first Hajj flight for 2026 departed on April 19.
This facility has now been expanded to include Lahore in addition to Karachi and Islamabad. The initiative is expected to support more than 95,000 pilgrims traveling from Pakistan to Saudi Arabia.
In other related news also read Saudi Arabia Sets Final Dates for Umrah Visas
Officials say the new arrangements aim to improve travel management and ensure smoother Hajj operations under updated regulations from Saudi Arabia.
