Ministry of Hajj and Umrah suspends Umrah company for accommodation violation – Details

Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah announced

Details of the violation and the legal procedures

The Ministry explained in its statement that it had observed groups of pilgrims arriving in Saudi Arabia without having been provided with their designated accommodation, despite these services being documented in official contracts. This deficiency necessitated immediate intervention from the relevant departments within the Ministry, and legal action was taken against the offending company and its contracted foreign agent to ensure the urgent resolution of the situation for the affected pilgrims and to hold those responsible accountable according to the legal frameworks in force in the Kingdom.

The context of the Kingdom's Vision 2030 and serving the pilgrims

This measure cannot be separated from the broader context of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 , which prioritizes serving pilgrims. The Vision aims to host 30 million Umrah pilgrims annually by 2030, a goal that necessitates a robust regulatory and legislative infrastructure to ensure the provision of the highest quality services. The Hajj and Umrah system operates in an integrated manner to enhance the quality of services offered, from issuing visas electronically through platforms like Nusk to guaranteeing the quality of accommodation, transportation, and catering.

The importance of the decision and its impact on the Umrah sector

This decision carries significant implications both locally and internationally. It sends a clear and strong message to all Umrah companies and their foreign agents that any compromise on the rights of pilgrims is a red line that cannot be crossed. This firm stance contributes to strengthening confidence in the Saudi Hajj and Umrah services system and assures pilgrims from around the world that their rights are preserved and protected by the highest supervisory authorities. The decision also fosters healthy competition among companies to provide the best services, which will positively impact the spiritual experience of visitors.

The Ministry's commitment to protecting the rights of pilgrims

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah emphasized that it will not hesitate to apply the prescribed penalties against any entity found to be negligent or in breach of contractual obligations. It affirmed that the quality of services provided to pilgrims is the fundamental criterion for the continued operation of companies in this vital sector. The Ministry called upon all establishments operating in the Umrah sector to fully comply with regulations and instructions, and to ensure the precise and professional implementation of agreed-upon programs, in order to guarantee a smooth and safe journey for Umrah pilgrims and visitors to the Prophet's Mosque.