Saudi Arabia suspends two Umrah firms over accommodation violations

Dubai: Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has suspended two Umrah companies for violating regulations, including housing pilgrims in unlicensed accommodations—an act the ministry described as a serious breach that jeopardises pilgrim safety.

Legal action has been initiated against the companies, which were also summoned for investigation. The ministry said the penalties are part of broader efforts to safeguard the rights of pilgrims and enforce compliance with service standards.

The ministry has stepped up its crackdown on companies that fail to meet regulatory requirements, warning that violations will be met with firm legal consequences. Inspections and monitoring efforts have intensified in recent months, targeting operators that do not comply with licensing rules or contractual obligations.

“The ministry will not tolerate negligence or breaches of contractual obligations,” it said in a statement, adding that all licensed Umrah operators must fully adhere to approved regulations and provide services according to established schedules.

The statement underscored the ministry’s commitment to ensuring the highest standards of quality and professionalism in services offered to pilgrims. It also called on all companies operating in the Umrah sector to prioritise the safety, comfort, and satisfaction of pilgrims and visitors to the holy sites in Mecca and Medina.

The enforcement action forms part of the ministry’s ongoing campaign to monitor service quality and ensure contractual obligations are met, in line with its broader strategy to enhance the pilgrim experience in the Kingdom.