SRINAGAR: Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has halted contracts with 1,800 overseas travel agencies after an assessment identified significant shortcomings in service quality and adherence to approved standards. The decision, announced on February 1, 2026, affects almost one-third of the approximately 5,800 Umrah operators worldwide but does not affect pilgrims who already hold valid visas or confirmed travel arrangements.
The Saudi Press Agency reported that the action followed a routine review of foreign Umrah service providers, which uncovered failures in key areas such as accommodation, transportation and visa-related services. The ministry has granted the affected agencies a 10-day period to address the deficiencies. Operators that meet the required criteria within this timeframe may have their contracts restored and regain the ability to issue new visas.
Authorities clarified that the suspension applies only to the issuance of new visas and the renewal of contracts. Pilgrims with valid visas or confirmed bookings will continue to receive full services, including lodging, transport and visa assistance. Ministry spokesperson Ghassan Alnwaimi said that enforcing service standards is essential to safeguarding pilgrims’ rights and ensuring dependable services across the Umrah sector.
The move forms part of Saudi Arabia’s broader efforts to regulate and professionalise the Umrah travel industry, enhance accountability and bring services in line with international benchmarks. Analysts say stronger oversight helps prevent malpractice, improves transparency and ensures agencies honour their commitments, reinforcing the Kingdom’s standing as the custodian of Islam’s two holiest mosques.
Travel agencies that fail to resolve the issues within the stipulated period may face prolonged suspension or permanent termination of their contracts. The ministry has indicated it will continue using monitoring and evaluation measures, including unannounced inspections and stricter performance criteria, to maintain service quality for future pilgrims.
