Saud Arabia has issued new rules for pilgrims coming to the country for the annual Hajj pilgrimage. The country’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has announced that children will be banned from accompanying the pilgrims during the Hajj 2025. 

The decision has been made in view of the intense crowding that occurs every year, reported Gulf News. “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.

The ministry further stated that the priority for the Hajj 2025 will be given as always to those who have not performed the pilgrimage. 

Registration for the Hajj season 2025 has started for Saudi citizens and residents via the Nusuk platform. As per the new regulations, applicants are required to verify their details and register their travel companions. 

Moreover, the ministry has created a new installment-based payment for domestic pilgrims. The applicants can pay for Hajj package in three instalments: a 20% deposit within 72 hours of making the reservation, followed by two equal payments of 40% by Ramadan 20 and Shawwal 20.

Last month, Minister of Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju signed the Haj Agreement 2025 with the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah in Jeddah. Under the agreement, New Delhi secured a quota of 175,025 pilgrims from India for the upcoming Haj season.

During the visit, Rijiju held several high-level meetings including with Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser, Minister of Transport & Logistic Services, to discuss potential collaborations in transport and logistics sectors between the two nations.