Saudi Arabia has announced that children will not be allowed to accompany pilgrims to Hajj in 2025, a move aimed at protecting them from the risks associated with the massive crowds that gather each year for the sacred pilgrimage.
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah emphasized that this decision was made to safeguard children from potential harm and to enhance overall safety during the pilgrimage. “This measure is taken to ensure the safety and well-being of children and to avoid exposing them to any harm during the pilgrimage,” the ministry stated.
As part of broader efforts to improve pilgrim safety, Saudi authorities have introduced several new measures. These include enhanced safety awareness campaigns, the implementation of modern intelligent systems to coordinate the movement of pilgrims, and infrastructure upgrades such as modernized tent camps and improved walking routes.
In keeping with past policies, priority for Hajj participation this year will be given to those who have not yet performed the pilgrimage. The 2025 Hajj season is expected to take place from June 4-6, depending on the sighting of the moon.
Saudi Arabia has long managed Hajj attendance through strict quotas for each country to prevent overcrowding.
In recent years, an influx of unauthorized pilgrims has led to dangerous levels of congestion. In response, the kingdom has introduced a significant policy change—only single-entry visas will now be issued for tourism, business, and family visits.
The previous one-year multiple-entry visa has been suspended indefinitely, affecting travelers from 14 countries, including Algeria, Bangladesh, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Jordan, Morocco, Nigeria, Pakistan, Sudan, Tunisia, and Yemen.
For domestic pilgrims, including Saudi citizens and residents, Hajj registration has been officially opened through the Nusuk app, the country’s dedicated digital platform for pilgrimage services.
Applicants must update their health information, add companions, and, if applicable, submit requests for Mahram (male guardian) exemptions. Once registrations are completed, pilgrims will be notified when Hajj package bookings become available.
Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam, a mandatory religious duty for Muslims who are physically and financially able to undertake it at least once in their lifetime.