Hajj 2025: Saudi Arabia prohibits pilgrims from bringing children to Hajj for safety reasons

In a recent move to enhance the safety and well-being of pilgrims during the Hajj pilgrimage, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has announced that children under the age of 12 will not be permitted to accompany their parents or guardians for Hajj 2025. This decision, issued by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, aims to mitigate potential risks associated with extreme crowding during the pilgrimage, which annually attracts millions of worshippers from around the globe. 

Makkah citing health and safety concerns 

The ministry emphasized that this measure is taken to ensure the safety and well-being of children and to prevent exposing them to potential harm during the pilgrimage. This policy aligns with previous regulations where children under 12 were restricted from entering significant religious sites during peak times. For instance, in 2021, Saudi authorities barred children under 12 from entering the Grand Mosque in Makkah, citing health and safety concerns.

 Guidelines for Hajj 2025

In addition to the age restriction, the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has outlined other health-related guidelines for Hajj 2025. Individuals with serious health conditions, such as kidney, heart, lung, liver diseases, cancer, dementia, or communicable diseases like tuberculosis and whooping cough, will not be allowed to perform Hajj. Pregnant women are also advised against undertaking the pilgrimage. Furthermore, all pilgrims are required to be vaccinated against meningitis, COVID-19, seasonal influenza, and polio to ensure a safe environment for all participants. 

Precautions

These measures reflect Saudi Arabia's commitment to safeguarding the health and safety of all pilgrims, especially in light of past incidents where overcrowding has led to tragic outcomes. By implementing such precautions, the authorities aim to provide a secure and spiritually fulfilling experience for all who undertake this this significant religious journey