Saudi Arabia has reversed its decision to impose a minimum age limit of 15 years for Hajj within hours of its announcement. According to a spokesperson for the Pakistan Aviation Authority (PAA), Saudi authorities have withdrawn the restriction and restored the earlier policy, allowing children aged 12 years and above to perform Hajj.
Details of the Reversal
The PAA stated that visas previously rejected under the 15-year age restriction will now be reprocessed. The Ministry of Religious Affairs also confirmed the reversal, noting that the Pakistani Hajj Mission has issued a revised directive based on the updated Saudi guidelines. Under the reinstated policy, pilgrims aged 12 years and above will be eligible to travel for Hajj, returning to the previous age threshold.
Earlier Announcement and Withdrawal
Earlier, it had been announced that children under 15 would not be permitted to travel for Hajj from 3 May 2026 and that their visas would be cancelled. However, the decision was withdrawn within hours, marking a swift change in policy.
Impact on Pakistani Pilgrims
The reversal is expected to benefit many Pakistani families who had planned to send younger children for Hajj. The PAA and Ministry of Religious Affairs are working to ensure that all affected visas are processed promptly.
