Saudi Arabia Warns of Misleading Hajj Visa Practices by Foreign Companies
Saudi Arabia has raised concerns about tourism companies from other countries misleading visa holders into taking part in the Hajj pilgrimage. Talal Shalhoub, security spokesperson for the Saudi Interior Ministry, announced on Monday that these companies issued visas not intended for Hajj and encouraged travelers to break regulations by arriving in Mecca two months ahead of the pilgrimage season, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
Shalhoub stressed the importance of the Hajj permit, describing it as more than just a transit pass. It is a critical tool for managing pilgrim access and pinpointing their locations to ensure they receive necessary care and services.
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He stressed that those without a Hajj permit often face significant difficulties in accessing essential services and health care during the pilgrimage. Shalhoub also revealed a troubling statistic: 83% of the deaths during this year’s Hajj season, or 1,079 out of 1,301 fatalities, were among individuals who lacked the required permits.
