By Sadiq Abdulfatah

Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has suspended 21 Umrah service companies after evaluations found shortcomings in service delivery and breaches of regulations during the previous Umrah season.

According to the ministry, reviews of the companies revealed a decline in the quality of services provided to pilgrims, as well as violations of the rules governing their operations.

The ministry said the decision reflects its commitment to ensuring high-quality services for Umrah pilgrims and visitors to the Prophet’s Mosque.

Of the 21 companies affected, 15 failed to meet the required performance evaluation standards, while six others were suspended for regulatory violations that required corrective action.

The ministry explained that its evaluation system is based on operational and supervisory indicators used to measure service quality and compliance with regulations.

It added that the system is designed to encourage competition among service providers, improve performance standards, and support the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030 by providing a safe and comfortable experience for pilgrims.

The ministry also reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing regulations, stressing that it would not tolerate any shortcomings that affect service quality or undermine the rights of pilgrims. It added that continuous evaluation remains a key tool for improving the Umrah sector and enhancing services.

Source: Arab News