JEDDAH, 24 February — A number of firms licensed to handle in-Kingdom pilgrims have decided to take up with the Ministry of Haj irregularities alleged in the allotment of zones to them in the holy places.
They claim that the ministry issued licenses to firms far in excess of the pilgrim service zones.
Haj Minister Iyad Madani said the grant of licenses was unconditional and had nothing to do with the allotment of service zones. A total of 800 firms were given licenses.
He, however, assured that his ministry intended to merge some of the pilgrim service firms by next year. Such a move would help in pooling financial resources and experiences to better serve the guests of Allah, the minister said.
