JEDDAH, 7 June 2006 — Saudi authorities have decided to stop issuing Umrah visas to individuals under 40 years of age who come alone from a number of countries including India, Pakistan and Egypt.
This decision was taken due to the fact that a large number of overstayers have done so on pilgrimages, said Adil Balkhair, assistant deputy minister for Umrah affairs.
Balkhair said this decision was taken in the light of continuous study of figures and as a result of Umrah regulations over the past years. He said the new rule was adopted after consulting all concerned parties. However, those under 40 years can come with their families or with organized legal groups.
“It became clear to us that some are using Umrah as an excuse to overstay and become illegal workers,” he added.
