Saudi Arabia Lifts Hajj Age Restriction for Pilgrims Under 15

The Saudi Arabian government has lifted its travel ban on pilgrims under the age of 15, permitting younger worshippers to perform Hajj for the first time since the restriction was imposed. The decision, announced ahead of the current Hajj season, is expected to significantly widen access to the pilgrimage for families across the Muslim world.

The age restriction had been introduced in the wake of health and crowd management concerns, and had prevented children from accompanying family members on the religious journey for several consecutive seasons. The removal of the ban follows assessments indicating that safety and logistical conditions have sufficiently improved.

For Pakistan, which sends one of the largest Hajj quotas globally, the development holds particular significance. Pakistani families with minor children will now be eligible to perform the pilgrimage together, a change welcomed by religious communities and the Ministry of Religious Affairs.

Saudi authorities have not yet released revised quota figures or processing guidelines incorporating the new age policy. Pakistan's Hajj operational machinery is expected to update its application and eligibility framework in the coming days to reflect the revised Saudi regulations.