JEDDAH, 6 February 2003 — Extension of Haj visas is not possible except on strong medical grounds subject to the Ministry of Haj’s approval. A period of up to 45 days validity is stamped on a pilgrim’s visa specifying dates of arrival and departure.
The Ministry of Haj has declared that all incoming pilgrims must return by Moharram 10 (March 13). Consular sources here say that requests for extensions are minimal this year. Yesterday was officially the last day for incoming Haj flights as well as the final day for local citizens and expatriates to obtain their Haj permits.
