Saudi Arabia: No new requirements for Umrah — Asharq Al-Awsat
There are no new requirements for performing Umrah in Saudi Arabia. Abdulmohsen Al-Salem, Deputy Minister of Hajj and Umrah for Umrah and Visits, said that the ministry continues to simplify procedures and develop services for pilgrims.
As Asharq Al-Awsat reports, the ministry's initiatives include a multiple-entry Umrah visa. According to Al-Salem, it is intended to give pilgrims greater flexibility in planning their trips. The ministry is also expanding direct access to Umrah services and package bookings through approved international and local online platforms.
Digital services
The Nusuk app and platform offer more than 150 digital services to over 51 million users from more than 170 countries, the official said. The next phase, he said, involves strengthening the integration of digital services, as well as using data and modern technologies for more proactive and personalized services.
More current news is available on the UA.News Telegram channel Telegram.
The ministry uses artificial intelligence technologies, including the Nusuk AI digital assistant. It provides pilgrims with information and answers their questions in text and voice formats. The Digital Mutawwif service helps count Tawaf and Sa'i circuits, directs visitors to less crowded areas, and provides religious guidance.
Company inspections
According to Al-Salem, 346 licensed companies are authorized to provide Umrah services in the country. Since the start of the 1448 Umrah season under the Islamic calendar, inspectors have carried out more than 32,000 inspections of pilgrims' accommodation facilities, Umrah companies, and other service providers.
In June, the ministry suspended the operations of 21 companies after assessing their performance during the previous season. Fifteen companies were suspended due to low assessment results, while another six were suspended for violating rules and instructions. The ministry takes into account not only compliance with regulatory and operational requirements, but also service quality and pilgrims' actual experience.
