Summary Saudi Arabia bans children under 15 from Hajj flights from May 3, 2026; visas cancelled, affected pilgrims to receive full refunds, PAA confirms.
ISLAMABAD/RIYADH (Dunya News) - Saudi Arabia has imposed a new age restriction for Hajj pilgrims, banning children under 15 from traveling for the pilgrimage.
According to a statement issued by the Pakistan Aviation Authority (PAA), the new policy will take effect from May 3, 2026, under which pilgrims below the age of 15 will not be allowed to travel on Hajj flights.
Following the implementation of the restriction, all Hajj visas issued to children under 15 have been declared cancelled. Officials said that pilgrims who will not have turned 15 by May 27, 2026, will not be eligible to travel to Saudi Arabia for Hajj.
The PAA spokesperson stated that around 70 pilgrims from Karachi are expected to be affected by the new policy.
Saudi immigration authorities have instructed all airports to prevent underage pilgrims from boarding Hajj flights.
The PAA added that Saudi authorities have assured a full refund for all affected pilgrims.
