Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed has revealed that more companies violating policies regarding organising Umrah pilgrimages to Saudi Arabia have been identified.
The Minister said some companies have failed to comply with the relevant rules gazetted on October 9 last year regarding Umrah group arrangements. He assured that action would be taken against these companies next week, based on the extent of their violations and unmet obligations.
Recently, a case emerged involving an Umrah group that neglected pilgrims under their care during the December Umrah season. Action has already been taken against the company responsible, identified as Al-Hijra Travel and Tours Private Limited.
It has been reported that 24 pilgrims under Al-Hijra’s care are stranded in Mecca. The company is alleged to have misused funds allocated for the purchase of their return tickets, resulting in the unfortunate situation.
The Minister emphasised that the government will always prioritise the safety and security of its citizens in situations where assistance is required. The government would make every effort to ensure the safe return of the pilgrims stranded in Saudi Arabia due to Al-Hijra’s negligence, he added.
The Islamic Ministry has previously reaffirmed the government’s commitment to holding companies accountable for negligence in managing Umrah pilgrimages.