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Saudi Arabian News Updates |
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24 April 2009 JEDDAH: Umrah pilgrims from
different countries will be asked to contract with
travel agents registered with International Air
Transport Association (IATA) in order to prevent foul
play, said Adel Balkhair, assistant deputy Haj
minister for Umrah affairs.
“IATA authorized agents would be more dependable as
the association gives membership to those companies
and agents that are genuine and have adequate manpower
and finance,” Balkhair told Al-Watan Arabic daily.
He said the Haj Ministry has set up committees to
monitor the performance and services of Umrah
companies. “We are seeking to provide the best
possible services to the guests of God and put an end
to negative practices such as squatting and delay in
return flights,” he said.
He said application of electronic systems is likely
to reduce prospects of pilgrims being cheated by their
agents. Visas are now issued through electronic
channels that link the Interior, Foreign and Haj
ministries.
People intending to perform Umrah should first
contract with licensed tour operators in their
countries that are linked with Saudi Umrah companies.
On completion of the necessary procedures, the
Foreign Ministry instructs the Saudi diplomatic
missions abroad to stamp visas in passports of
prospective pilgrims. Saudi Umrah companies coordinate
with the Haj Ministry to get Umrah visas for their
clients.
“These procedures can be completed within 24
hours,” Balkhair said.
Some pilgrims prefer to visit Madinah first while
others go directly to Makkah.
“The ministry will follow up the agreement between
pilgrims and service providers and will punish those
who violate its terms,” Balkhair said.
“We will make field inspections and solve problems
pilgrims face. We also accept complaints from pilgrims
and pass them to specialized committees,” Balkhair
said.
Companies found violating agreement terms will be
either fined SR50,000 or their activities suspended
for up to six months or their licenses revoked.
As many as 92 companies have been licensed to
provide Umrah services but only 48 of them will
operate this year, Balkhair said.
Saeed Al-Qurashi, deputy chairman of the Haj and
Umrah Committee at Makkah Chamber of Commerce and
Industry, meanwhile, reported 60 percent occupancy in
hotels and apartments close to the Grand Mosque.
He believes that by next week the rate will
increase considerably with the school vacation and
arrival of more foreign pilgrims. |
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