Key Takeaways
- Saudi Arabia warns against misuse of visas for Hajj pilgrimage, with 83% of mortalities being those without a Hajj permit.
- A Hajj permit is crucial for pilgrim safety, facilitating access to care and services.
- The Saudi Interior Ministry has emphasized the importance of following regulations and obtaining a Hajj permit for a safe and successful pilgrimage.
Riyadh: Saudi Arabia accused on Monday tourism companies from other countries of misleading visit visa holders into participating in the Hajj pilgrimage.
The Saudi Interior Ministry‘s spokesperson, Talal Shalhoub, warned that companies are issuing visas not intended for Hajj, and are encouraging pilgrims to stay in Mecca two months before the Hajj season. According to the Saudi Press Agency, this is a clear violation of regulations.
The spokesperson emphasized that a Hajj permit is not merely a transit card but a crucial tool that facilitates access to pilgrims and identifies their locations to provide necessary care and services.
The spokesperson underscored that individuals without a Hajj permit face challenges in accessing essential services and healthcare during the pilgrimage.
According to Shalhoub, 83 percent of the total mortalities during the Hajj season this year, amounting to 1,079 out of 1,301, were those without Hajj permits.
