Saudi Arabia has reversed its recently announced restriction barring pilgrims under the age of 15 from performing Hajj, restoring the previous eligibility criteria that allow children aged 12 and above to undertake the pilgrimage.
The decision, confirmed on Saturday by Pakistan’s aviation authorities and Hajj officials, comes just ahead of the policy’s scheduled enforcement on May 3.
The earlier directive, issued by Saudi authorities, had prohibited entry for all pilgrims below 15 years of age for Hajj 2026. It also led to the cancellation of visas issued to underage pilgrims, triggering concern among families preparing for the annual Islamic pilgrimage.
In a statement, the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) confirmed that the Kingdom has now withdrawn the restriction and reinstated the earlier policy framework. Under the revised position, children aged 12 and above are once again eligible to travel for Hajj, bringing immediate relief to affected applicants.