Saudi Arabia suspends Umrah firm over failure to provide pilgrim accommodation

In a statement issued on Sunday, the ministry said the company committed a clear violation of regulations governing services for Umrah pilgrims and visitors to the Prophet’s Mosque. A number of pilgrims arrived in the Kingdom without secured accommodation, despite housing being included in the contractual arrangements.

The ministry said the breach prompted immediate regulatory action against both the local company and its overseas agent, in accordance with established legal frameworks. The measures are intended to protect pilgrims’ rights, prevent repeat violations, and ensure continued improvements in service quality.

It stressed that the suspension reflects ongoing efforts to ensure Umrah companies fulfil their contractual obligations professionally and without negligence, in line with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030 to enhance the Umrah experience at every stage of the journey.

The ministry underlined that it will not tolerate any breach of contract, emphasising that pilgrims’ rights are a top priority and that service quality is a “red line” that cannot be compromised.

It also called on all Umrah companies and institutions to strictly comply with regulations and deliver services exactly as outlined in their approved programmes to ensure the highest levels of satisfaction for pilgrims and visitors.