The Ministry of Haj has warned Umrah companies that they would be held responsible for any problems arising out of grouping errors.
The companies may be required to compensate pilgrims by finding them accommodations in Jeddah, arrange alternative bookings and take care of their daily needs including food until their departure.
The ministry said in a statement: “If claims of group errors are proved, the airline companies would be held responsible and they will have to take care of the pilgrims. Such errors will be taken as violations, and companies will be held accountable for mistakes which will reflect on their future operational plans. To avoid such mistakes, the companies should adhere to grouping mechanisms and recent decisions.”
The ministry also stressed passenger cooperation. They should comply with the maximum baggage allowance rules decided by the General Authority of Civil Aviation and stick to using Zamzam water containers earmarked for air travel.
The ministry called on authorities specializing in providing Umrah services to stop buses from carrying passengers whose flights aren’t scheduled to leave King Abdulaziz International Airport.
Schedules are provided by the General Authority of Civil Aviation, and can be obtained from Al-Makha’ company.
The decisions have been highlighted since the current Umrah season is coming to an end.
This was also necessary since the grouping center, which was located on the Jeddah-Makkah Road, has been relocated. Grouping for departing pilgrims is an important aspect because it prevents problems cropping up inside the airport.
If a flight isn’t scheduled by the General Authority of Civil Aviation, Umrah companies need to coordinate with the airline company for rescheduling. Umrah automated system checks data accuracy provided by Umrah companies, by issuing a reference number to process the application.
Umrah companies will be provided with this number electronically 12 hours before the scheduled flight. Buses should arrive at the airport six hours before departure.
Ministry guidelines to reduce hardship of pilgrimage
