Last Updated on: 2nd July 2023, 05:03 pm
Saudi Arabia Finally Lifts The Age Limit For Hajj Pilgrims
Saudi Arabia has finally lifted restrictions on the number and age limit of Hajj pilgrims for this season, three years after the coronavirus prompted a global travel ban.
Confirming the announcement, Saudi Hajj Minister and Umrah Tawfiq Al Rabiah said the number of pilgrims will normalize with no age limit.
Around 2.5 million people performed Hajj in 2019, but in 2022 only 900,000 pilgrims, including 780,000 foreigners, took part in the holy pilgrimage due to COVID-19. In addition, the maximum age limit was set at 65 years with a mandatory vaccination certificate against the coronavirus and a negative PCR test.
Earlier, Saudi Arabia announced an installment plan for domestic Hajj pilgrims, allowing them to pay the full cost of the Hajj in three installments.
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah tweeted that local pilgrims can pay 20% of the total amount as a first installment within 72 hours of reserving a place. The second installment, which is 40% of the total cost, is due on Rajab 7, 1444 AH (29th January 2023).
The third and last installment is due on Shawwal 10, 1444 AD. H. (April 30, 2023), less than two months before the start of the Hajj season at the end of June this year. Domestic pilgrims, including expatriates in the kingdom, can apply through the ministry’s website or the Nusuk portal.
Also Read: Federal Govt Approved The Pakistan Hajj Policy 2022