Residents of the United Arab Emirates possessing Umrah visas are under pressure to leave Saudi Arabia by June 6 in preparation for the Haj pilgrimage. The pilgrimage has been accelerated due to the reduction in the limit of Umrah visas from 15,000 to 1,500.
The anticipation for the Haj pilgrimage prompts urgency among UAE residents holding Umrah visas, with Saudi Arabia setting a June 6 deadline for their exit.
Limited Timeframe and Reduced Quotas
The reduced quota of Umrah visas, from 15,000 to 1,500, has intensified the rush among pilgrims. The dwindling availability urges residents to act swiftly to secure their pilgrimage opportunity before the impending Haj season commences. Qaiser Mahmood from ASAA Tourism reports a daily influx of inquiries, emphasizing the necessity for early planning due to the stringent timeframe imposed by Saudi authorities.
Booking Process and Penalties
Booking slots through the Nusuk app has become imperative for pilgrims, serving as a prerequisite before purchasing tickets. Failure to adhere to this procedure may result in denial of entry to Saudi Arabia. Moreover, stringent penalties, including imprisonment for up to two years and hefty fines of SAR 50,000, await violators who overstay their Umrah visas, underscoring the seriousness of compliance with exit deadlines.
Airport Restrictions and Vaccination Requirements
Pilgrims must be cognizant of the restricted airports accessible with Umrah visas, namely Jeddah, Madinah, Yanbu, and Taif, while those with multiple entry visas face prohibitions. Furthermore, stringent vaccination mandates, such as the influenza vaccine, add an additional layer of preparation. Shihab Perwad from Rehan Al Jazeera Tourism emphasizes that non-compliance with vaccination requirements could lead to denied boarding, further emphasizing the necessity for meticulous preparation and adherence to regulations.
With the commencement of the Haj season looming, authorities are intensifying preparations and heightening vigilance to ensure seamless operations and adherence to regulations. As the first batch of Haj pilgrims arrives, the spotlight on compliance and readiness for the influx of pilgrims underscores the significance of meticulous planning and adherence to regulatory mandates.
The announcement of the June 6 exit deadline for Umrah visa holders underscores the urgency for UAE residents to seize the opportunity for pilgrimage before the onset of the Haj season. With reduced quotas, stringent booking procedures, and penalties for non-compliance, meticulous planning and adherence to regulations are imperative to ensure a smooth and successful pilgrimage experience.
