Major Decision for Hajj 2026: Saudi Arabia Imposes Ban on Children Under 12
Key Safety Measure in View of Extreme Heat, Massive Crowds, and Health Risks

The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has announced a major safety decision for Hajj 2026, stating that children below the age of 12 will not be permitted to perform Hajj. The primary objective of this decision is to protect pilgrims, especially young children, from the dangers of extreme heat and overcrowding.

In recent years, numerous deaths and heat-related illnesses have been reported during Hajj due to extreme temperatures and dense crowds, with a significant number of victims being children and elderly pilgrims. Experts say that the combination of constant walking, physical exertion during rituals, and temperatures often exceeding 50°C poses a severe threat to young children.

In this context, the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has described the ban on children under 12 as a fundamental safety step.

Families applying for Hajj 2026 registration have been instructed to verify the age of their children and not register those under 12 years of age. Additionally, strict medical and age-related conditions have been imposed by Saudi authorities. Pilgrims with extremely weak health or those unable to endure prolonged worship and physical activity have also been barred from performing Hajj.

Muslims planning to perform Hajj, especially families with children under 12, are advised to keep this new policy in mind while making preparations. It is mandatory to thoroughly read all official rules and regulations before proceeding with any registration, payment, or booking related to Hajj.

(Courtesy: The Islamic Information.Com)