Saudi Arabia announces new travel regulations for Umrah pilgrims

RIYADH: The Saudi General Aviation Authority (GACA) has issued new guidelines affecting Umrah passengers, specifically targeting those travelling on visas after 15 Shawwal.

According to the new guidelines, pilgrims holding Umrah visas after 15 Shawwal will not be allowed to travel to Saudi Arabia, a move designed to streamline the annual Hajj process.

The directive, which came into effect immediately, mandates that airlines refrain from issuing boarding passes to such passengers. Violators of the regulation, including both passengers and airlines, will face legal action under Saudi laws. The new rules have caused confusion and frustration among passengers, with more than 60 Umrah pilgrims currently stranded in Saudi Arabia.

Flight SV 700, which was scheduled to arrive in Karachi yesterday, sparked controversy. Boarding passes had already been issued to the passengers but were turned down at the last minute due to limited capacity on the plane.

Sources confirm that the affected passengers mainly belong to the Jafar Khan Leghari area of ​​Sanghar, an area known for its strong ties with Umrah pilgrims.

Despite the passage of 24 hours since the incident, arrangements have not yet been made to bring the stranded pilgrims back to Pakistan. The situation has further deteriorated with the passengers expressing their dissatisfaction through protests. The stranded pilgrims include elderly women and children, adding to the sensitivity of the matter.

In response to the growing unrest, the passengers were temporarily shifted to a hotel, where they are awaiting further updates. Airport authorities have assured that alternative flights will be arranged to bring the pilgrims back to Karachi. However, the delays and lack of communication have caused considerable distress, with the pilgrims and their families seeking an immediate solution.