The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has clarified that the recent decision to ban children from participating in the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage aims to manage the growing crowds and prioritize safety during the annual religious gathering.
Despite an increase in the overall Hajj quota — including 10,000 additional permits for the upcoming year — approximately 67,000 pilgrims under the private Hajj scheme will still not be able to perform Hajj due to logistical limitations.
The ministry introduced the new restriction earlier this year, prohibiting children from accompanying pilgrims. According to official statements, the measure is part of broader reforms designed to improve crowd control and ensure the well-being of all attendees.
Officials noted that the dense gatherings during previous Hajj seasons raised serious safety concerns, particularly for young children who may be vulnerable in high-pressure environments.
The ban, they emphasized, is a preventive step to avoid accidents and improve overall management during one of the largest religious gatherings in the world.
