Saudi Arabia has temporarily suspended agreements with 1,800 foreign travel agencies due to violations related to Umrah services and has halted the issuance of new Umrah visas for these companies, according to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA).
Action Taken to Enforce Service Standards
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah stated that around 5,800 overseas travel agencies are officially registered with Saudi authorities.
Disciplinary action was taken against agencies that failed to meet required service standards for Umrah pilgrims, including accommodation, transport, and overall facilitation requirements.
10-Day Deadline to Rectify Violations
Affected travel agencies have been given 10 days to address and rectify the identified violations. The ministry said that agreements may be reinstated once compliance is verified.
No Impact on Already-Issued Umrah Visas
Saudi authorities clarified that the decision will not affect pilgrims who have already received Umrah visas before the suspension. Such pilgrims can travel to Saudi Arabia according to their original schedules without disruption.
Measures Aimed at Improving Pilgrim Services
Officials emphasized that the temporary suspension applies only to agencies found violating service regulations. The move is intended to enhance service quality, protect pilgrims’ rights, and improve the overall Umrah experience for visitors from around the world.
