Saudi Arabia Suspends Umrah Firms for Unlicensed Accommodations

Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has taken decisive action by suspending four Umrah service companies and four overseas agents. This suspension follows the discovery of violations where pilgrims were accommodated in unlicensed facilities. The ministry highlighted that these violations have impacted a number of Umrah pilgrims.

The suspended companies have been referred to the committee responsible for reviewing pilgrims' complaints. This committee will conduct investigations and impose penalties according to the applicable regulations. This move is part of the ministry's ongoing inspections to ensure that Umrah service providers comply with approved rules and requirements.

The ministry is committed to protecting pilgrims' rights and improving the quality of services offered. It will continue both field and digital monitoring of Umrah companies, service providers, and overseas agents to ensure compliance with regulatory and operational requirements.

Inspections will focus on whether contracted services are delivered as agreed, identifying violations, and taking legal action against offenders. The ministry has urged Saudi Umrah companies and overseas agents to adhere to regulations and fulfill their obligations towards pilgrims.

This enforcement action is part of broader efforts to raise compliance standards, improve service quality, and enhance the Umrah experience in alignment with Saudi Arabia's Pilgrim Experience Program, which is a component of Vision 2030.