The number of Jordanian pilgrims performing Hajj will return to pre-pandemic levels this year, the Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs said Sunday.

The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has agreed to take in 8,000 Jordanian pilgrims and 4,500 pilgrims from the 1948 Palestinian territories, said Majdi Al-Batush, director-general for the Hajj and Umrah.

Saudi Arabia has lifted various restrictions, including an age ceiling of 65 years, so elderly Jordanians are once again able to perform their religious duties.

Jordanian Minister of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs Mohammad Al-Khalayleh signed an agreement with Saudi pilgrimage minister Tawfiq Al-Rabiah on Saturday, at the sidelines of the international Hajj Expo 2023 conference.

The agreement includes arrangements for transportation and border crossings, as well as regulations for the safety and comfort of pilgrims.