The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has suspended the operations of 21 Umrah service companies as part of efforts to improve the quality of services provided to Umrah pilgrims.
According to the ministry, the action was taken following a comprehensive review of the companies’ performance during the previous Umrah season.
The ministry stated that several companies were found to have delivered substandard services to pilgrims, while others were involved in violations of established regulations and operational requirements.
Of the 21 suspended companies, 15 failed to meet the required performance and service quality standards, while six companies were penalised for regulatory violations and instructed to implement corrective measures.
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah explained that it operates a comprehensive evaluation system to assess service providers. The system measures compliance with operational, administrative, and supervisory standards and is used to monitor performance, classify companies and ensure accountability.
Officials said the move aims to encourage healthy competition among Umrah service providers, raise service standards and enhance the overall pilgrimage experience in line with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.
The ministry emphasised that protecting the rights of Umrah pilgrims remains a top priority, adding that any shortcomings affecting pilgrims’ comfort, safety or rights will not be tolerated.
The statement further noted that regular inspections and continuous monitoring of Umrah service companies will continue to ensure greater transparency, improved performance and the delivery of high-quality services across the sector.
New Umrah season begins in Saudi Arabia
Earlier, Saudi Arabia officially began issuing visas for Umrah for the new season, which started on Dhul Hijjah 14, or May 31.
The announcement coincides with the preparations for the next season of the Umrah pilgrimage for the year 1448 AH, after the completion of the Hajj season.
The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah released an umrah season calendar which revealed that from June 1st the pilgrims will be able to enter Makkah and get their permit to perform the umrah using the digital Nusuk application.
The ministry has also indicated dates for important activities during the season. The issuance of the visas for the pilgrimage of ‘Umrah’ will remain in force until the month of Shawwal 1, 1448 AH, which falls on March 9th, 2027.
The pilgrims who plan to perform “Umrah” are required to enter Saudi Arabia by the 15th of “Shawwal” 1448 AH (March 23, 2027).
The ministry added that all the pilgrims of Umrah should depart from the Kingdom before the month of Shawwal 30, 1448 AH, which is expected to fall on April 7, 2027.
Saudi authorities have ordered all the providers of Umrah services and travel companies from abroad to strictly abide by the allowed schedule and all the regulations established by the ministry.
Also read: Govt warns against working abroad on visit, Umrah visas
