10,000 Foreign Pilgrims to perform Umrah each week

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah on Monday confirmed the resumption of Umrah for foreign visitors from Sunday, November 1^st and also released a list of guidelines which includes the protocols, and precautionary measures for the gradual resumption of Umrah.

The ministry has said that it will only allow pilgrims between the ages of 18 and 50 years old to come for Umrah, in line with the requirements of the Ministry of Health. They must present a PCR test certificate proving that they have tested negative for COVID-19. The certificate must be issued by a trusted laboratory in the pilgrim’s country no more than 72 hours before departure.

Pilgrims must book their Umrah and prayers at the Two Holy Mosques, including visits to the Prophet’s Mosque and prayers in the Prophet’s Chamber. All bookings can be done through the Eatmarna app.

The mandatory components of the package for each pilgrim include booking accommodation that provides three full-board meals for the quarantine period, which should be at least three days, and transport from the arrival port to the accommodation. They must also have a comprehensive insurance policy.

Pilgrims arriving from abroad will be divided into groups of at least 50 pilgrims. Unified programs must be booked for the groups, including all services that match the date of their booking to perform Umrah and visit the Two Holy Mosques.