Saudi Arabia Suspends 21 Umrah Companies Over Poor Service, Others
By Abdulrazaq Auwal
Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has suspended 21 Umrah service companies following an assessment that revealed poor performance and violations of regulatory requirements during the last Umrah season.
The ministry announced that the decision was part of its ongoing efforts to ensure high-quality services for pilgrims and maintain strict compliance with operational standards across the sector.
The ministry said 15 of the suspended companies failed to meet the minimum performance benchmarks under its evaluation framework, while six others committed regulatory breaches that prompted corrective measures and disciplinary action.
Officials said the ministry’s evaluation system relies on a set of operational and supervisory indicators designed to measure service quality, efficiency, and adherence to regulations governing Umrah service providers.
The framework is also intended to encourage healthy competition among companies and drive continuous improvements in the sector.
The ministry stressed that the suspensions reflect its commitment to protecting pilgrims’ rights and enhancing their overall experience while performing Umrah and visiting the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah.
It noted that improving service standards remains a key priority under Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 agenda, which seeks to expand and modernize services for pilgrims arriving from around the world.
The ministry warned that it would continue to enforce regulations rigorously and would not tolerate any shortcomings that negatively affect pilgrims or undermine the quality of services provided.
Authorities further emphasized that continuous monitoring and evaluation of Umrah service providers remain essential tools for strengthening the sector, raising performance standards, and ensuring a safe, comfortable, and spiritually fulfilling journey for visitors.
The latest action underscores Saudi Arabia’s determination to hold service providers accountable and maintain high standards as the Kingdom continues to welcome millions of Umrah pilgrims annually.
