From Priority Access For First-Time Visitors To No Children, Here Are Saudi Arabia’s New Hajj 2025 Rules!

If you are planning for a sacred journey of Hajj in 2025 then stop and read this now! Saudi Arabia has rolled out major updates, and they’re set to change the way pilgrims experience this once-in-a-lifetime journey. From banning children under 12 to prioritising first-time pilgrims, the new rules aim to ensure a safer, smoother, and more organised pilgrimage. Here’s everything you need to know before booking your trip.

Saudi Arabia Unveils New Hajj 2025 Rules

1. No Children Allowed, Here’s Why

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has officially announced that children under 12 will not be permitted to participate in Hajj 2025. The reason? Safety concerns.

• The pilgrimage draws millions of people, creating an environment that can be overwhelming and risky for young children.
• Saudi authorities stress that the decision is a protective measure to prevent accidents in high-density areas.
• The rule aligns with the broader goal of making Hajj a more secure and manageable experience for all attendees.

While some families welcome the decision as a necessary precaution, others feel it disrupts traditional family participation. Regardless of the debate, the policy is now in place, so families must plan accordingly.

2. First-Time Pilgrims Get Priority

Another major change? Priority access for first-time pilgrims.

• Saudi Arabia wants to maximise the opportunity for Muslims who have never performed Hajj before.
• Those applying for the first time will have an advantage over repeat pilgrims.
• The move ensures that more people get to fulfil their religious obligation at least once in their lifetime.

If you’ve been dreaming of your first Hajj experience, 2025 might be your best shot.

3. New Visa Regulations, What’s Changing?

Starting February 1, 2025, Saudi Arabia is tightening visa policies to curb unauthorised Hajj participation.

• Single-entry visas only for 14 countries, including India, Pakistan, Indonesia, Egypt, and Nigeria.
• Multiple-entry visas for tourism, business, and family visits have been suspended indefinitely for these countries.
• The goal is to prevent overcrowding caused by visitors entering on long-term visas and attempting to join the pilgrimage unofficially.

Hajj Registration & Flexible Payment Options

Good news for Saudi citizens and residents, you can now register for Hajj 2025 easily via the Nusuk app or the official website.

• New payment plan for domestic pilgrims: Pay in instalments instead of one lump sum.
• Payment structure:
  • 20% deposit within 72 hours of booking.
  • 40% instalment by Ramadan 20.
  • Final 40% instalment by Shawwal 20.

This flexible approach ensures that more people can afford to book their pilgrimage without financial strain.

Also Read: Hajj New Rule: Men & Women No Longer Allowed To Stay In The Same Tent Even If They’re Married

Affected Countries

If you’re travelling from any of these 14 nations, take note:

• Bangladesh, Egypt, India, Indonesia, Pakistan, Algeria, Ethiopia, Iraq, Jordan, Morocco, Nigeria, Sudan, Tunisia, and Yemen.

If you plan to perform Hajj, ensure you apply through the correct channels to avoid any complications.

With safety, crowd control, and fair access as top priorities, Saudi Arabia’s new Hajj rules aim to create a more seamless and secure pilgrimage. While some changes, like the child ban, have sparked mixed reactions, the overall goal remains clear to enhance the experience for all pilgrims.

Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Stock Images