Managing Umrah Crowds During Ramadan: Saudi Arabia’s New Restrictions

Addressing Overcrowding

Umrah Restriction Announcement

Saudi Arabia has announced a restriction on performing Umrah more than once during Ramadan. This decision aims to avoid overcrowding during this sacred month, ensuring equal opportunities for all to participate in Umrah and effectively control the crowds at the Grand Mosque in Mecca.

Implementation and Enforcement

Nusuk Platform Restriction

To enforce this restriction, the Nusuk platform, a Saudi government electronic portal for Umrah procedures, will display an error message if someone attempts to obtain a permit for a second Umrah during Ramadan. The message emphasizes that repeating the minor pilgrimage during Ramadan is not permitted to allow others the opportunity to perform it.

Managing the Surge in Visitors

Measures Implemented

During Ramadan, Muslims from both within and outside Saudi Arabia flock to the Grand Mosque to perform Umrah and offer prayers. To accommodate the expected surge in visitors, Saudi authorities have implemented various measures to facilitate a smooth and comfortable experience for worshippers.

Amenities for Pilgrims

Extended Visa Duration and Accessibility

In recent times, Saudi Arabia has introduced several amenities for foreign Muslims wishing to perform Umrah in the country. Individuals holding different types of entry visas, including personal, visit, and tourism visas, are permitted to perform Umrah and visit Al Rawda Al Sharifa, the location of the Prophet Mohammad’s tomb at the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina, after scheduling an e-appointment. Furthermore, the Umrah visa duration has been extended from 30 days to 90 days to accommodate a longer stay for pilgrims.

Permit Process and Guidelines

Using the Nusuk App

To obtain a permit for performing Umrah, individuals can use the Nusuk App. The ministry has directed pilgrims to adhere strictly to the scheduled date and timing, as changes cannot be made in the system. Pilgrims seeking to make alterations must cancel their permit and reapply.

Ensuring a Healthy Umrah Experience

Health and Safety Tips

For a healthy Umrah experience, it’s recommended to wear medical socks to avoid walking barefoot for prolonged periods, use creams and moisturizers to prevent skin abrasions, and wear masks to prevent respiratory infections. It’s also important to adhere to guidelines and etiquette, cooperate, and treat others respectfully and kindly during the pilgrimage.

Saudi Arabia’s restriction on performing Umrah more than once during Ramadan reflects the government’s efforts to manage crowds, ensure fairness, and enhance the overall experience for pilgrims. By implementing these measures and providing amenities, Saudi Arabia aims to facilitate a smooth and spiritually enriching Umrah journey for all