Saudi Arabia Prohibits Children from Participating in Hajj 2025
"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 said as quoted by Saudi media outlets.
The move comes amid heightened concerns over the safety of pilgrims, especially vulnerable groups. Last year, extreme heat claimed the lives of some 1,300 pilgrims during Hajj last year, as confirmed by health authorities.
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The hajj, a mandatory Islamic rite for financially and physically capable Muslims, witnessed the participation of approximately 1.8 million pilgrims in 2024, mirroring the previous year's figures. Of these, an estimated 1.6 million were international visitors.
The pilgrimage rituals, traditionally conducted outdoors, have coincided with the intense summer heat of Saudi Arabia in recent years. Last year, temperatures in Mecca soared to a scorching 51.8°C (125.2°F).
The pilgrimage involves rituals such as Tawaf (circumambulation of the Kaaba) and Sa’i (walking between the hills of Safa and Marwah), which require significant physical exertion in crowded environments.
Source: Agencies
