The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah announced that it has taken decisive action against two Umrah companies, immediately suspending their services, after discovering serious violations related to their failure to provide contracted accommodation for a number of pilgrims arriving from Egypt. The Ministry confirmed that it intervened immediately to secure alternative accommodation for the affected pilgrims, emphasizing that the rights and comfort of pilgrims are a top priority that cannot be compromised.
Details of the violation and the actions taken
The Ministry explained in its statement that its field inspection teams observed the arrival of a number of Egyptian pilgrims in the Kingdom without their approved accommodation being provided, despite their contractual packages explicitly including this service. The Ministry considered this a clear violation of the regulations and instructions governing the services provided to pilgrims and visitors to the Prophet's Mosque. Accordingly, the two companies responsible have been suspended, and coordination is currently underway with the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism to take the necessary legal measures against the foreign agents in Egypt who contracted with these two companies, to ensure that all negligent parties are held accountable.
The organizational context and the Kingdom's efforts to serve the pilgrims
This measure comes as part of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's ongoing efforts to regulate the Hajj and Umrah sector and enhance the quality of services provided. In line with the goals of Vision 2030, the Kingdom is working to improve the experience of pilgrims, making it more convenient and comfortable. To this end, it has launched several initiatives and digital platforms, such as the "Nusk" platform, which aims to facilitate arrival procedures and the performance of rituals, and increase transparency in contracts between pilgrims and service providers. Licensed Umrah companies are subject to strict oversight to ensure their adherence to the highest quality standards and the provision of services as stipulated in their contracts.
The importance of the decision and its impact on the sector
The suspension sends a clear message to all those working in the Umrah sector, both inside and outside the Kingdom, that there is no room for leniency or negligence in serving the pilgrims. Domestically, this measure strengthens pilgrims' confidence in the Saudi regulatory system and serves as a deterrent to any company that might consider failing to meet its obligations. Regionally and internationally, the coordination with Egyptian authorities reflects the depth of cooperation to ensure the protection of the rights of pilgrims of all nationalities and contributes to preventing the recurrence of such violations in the future. This decision also underscores that service quality is a red line that cannot be crossed, thus solidifying the Kingdom's reputation as a leading destination for providing a comprehensive and safe spiritual experience for Muslims from around the world.
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah renewed its call to all Umrah companies and institutions to fully comply with the approved regulations and instructions, and to provide services in accordance with the contracted programs, stressing that it will continue its monitoring tours and apply the maximum penalties to violators to ensure a distinguished Umrah experience for the guests of God.
