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2 months ago

Saudi Arabia bans children from accompanying hajj pilgrims

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Saudi Arabia has banned children from accompanying pilgrims during the hajj season of this year, according to the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah of the kingdom.

The ministry said they have taken the decision with an aim to protect children from the risks associated with the intense crowding that occurs every year, Gulf News reported.

“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 also added that priority for Hajj participation this year will be given as always to those who have not performed the pilgrimage before.

Registration for the 2025 Hajj season has officially opened for Saudi citizens and residents through the Nusuk app and the official online portal. Pilgrims are required to verify their information, add companions, and submit any requests for exemptions, including those related to accompanying mahrams.

The ministry emphasised the importance of being prepared ahead of the Hajj package sales, which has already begun via the Nusuk platform. Pilgrims must configure their preferred packages, ensure their e-wallets are topped up, and finalize their selections promptly.

In another key development, domestic pilgrims can now pay for their Hajj packages in three installments. The first payment, amounting to 20 per cent of the package cost, must be made within 72 hours of booking, while the second and third installments — each 40 per cent of the total cost — are due by Ramadan 20 and Shawwal 20, respectively.

The ministry noted that a booking will remain unconfirmed until the final installment is paid, with invoices issued for each partial payment.

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