Picture for illustrative purposes only.

Operators in the UAE must get approval from the General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments before organizing or advertising Haj or Umrah trips. The new rules, enforced this week, came as Saudi Arabia tightened rules on tourists coming to the country for pilgrimage. According to the Islamic authority, individuals, operators and offices are also prohibited from collecting or receiving donations for pilgrimage without a licence. Violators will be fined up to Dh50,000 under the new rules. Residents have reported illegal agents who advertise Umrah permits at cheap prices on social media. Authorities said the unscrupulous agents use business visas to try to get visitors into Saudi Arabia. Any other form of visa is not considered a Haj permit, according to Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Interior. On May 23, the ministry announced that visit visa holders will not be allowed to enter Makkah during Haj until June 21. Those wishing to perform Haj in Makkah, including Saudi residents are required to present a Haj permit. Saudi authorities have to adhere to a quota when issuing permits to individuals who want to perform Haj. Saudi Arabia’s Fatwa Council also banned performing Haj without a permit to ensure the safety and security of pilgrims. ICA/Expat Media
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