Saudi Arabia has intensified its crackdown on unlicensed tourism and Umrah service providers, blocking seven online platforms and suspending eight companies and foreign agents over regulatory violations.
The Ministry of Tourism, in coordination with relevant authorities, blocked seven online platforms for providing travel and tourism services, including domestic Umrah packages and tourist excursions, without meeting the required regulatory standards.
The action aims to curb irregular practices, protect tourists and Umrah pilgrims from fraud, and ensure that travel services meet the required quality standards.
Ministry of Tourism spokesperson Nasr Al-Ansari said the ministry would continue monitoring violations across tourism activities, including online travel platforms, and take legal action against those who breach the rules.
He stressed that protecting tourists and Umrah pilgrims, safeguarding their rights and ensuring service quality remain key priorities.
The ministry also urged travellers and pilgrims to book their trips only through licensed online platforms and authorised travel and tourism offices.
Saudi Arabia Suspends Umrah Companies and Foreign Agents
Separately, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah suspended four Umrah service companies and four foreign agents after detecting violations involving the accommodation of pilgrims in unlicensed facilities.
According to the ministry, the violations affected several pilgrims. The companies and agents were referred to the committee responsible for reviewing pilgrim complaints for investigation and possible statutory penalties.
The ministry said it would continue field inspections and digital monitoring of Umrah companies, service providers and foreign agents to ensure compliance with operational and regulatory requirements.
It also called on Saudi companies and overseas agents to follow approved rules and fulfil their obligations towards pilgrims.
The measures are part of Saudi Arabia’s efforts under the Pilgrim Experience Program, a key initiative of Saudi Vision 2030, to improve services and protect pilgrims.
How to Apply for Umrah Under New Rules? Easy Guide Here
Pilgrims planning to perform Umrah should follow these steps to reduce the risk of fraud and avoid problems with their travel arrangements.
1. Choose a licensed travel agency: Book through an authorised travel and tourism office or a platform approved to provide Umrah services.
2. Verify the service provider: Check the agency’s licensing status through the relevant Saudi authorities before making any payment.
3. Confirm your Umrah package: Review the package details, including accommodation, transport, visa arrangements and other included services.
4. Check hotel arrangements: Confirm that the accommodation is properly licensed and that the booking details match the services promised by the agent.
5. Keep payment records: Obtain receipts, booking confirmations and written terms and conditions for all payments.
6. Verify visa requirements: Check the latest visa and entry requirements through official Saudi government channels before travelling.
7. Report suspected violations: If an agency offers suspicious services or fails to provide the agreed arrangements, contact the relevant authorities through their official complaint channels.
Pilgrims are advised to verify the latest requirements before booking, as rules and approved service providers may change. Using an authorised provider can help protect their rights and reduce the risk of fraudulent bookings.
