The government has rejected calls from local companies and agents abroad to increase the 15-day limit on Umrah visas during Ramadan, according to a recent report in a local newspaper.

In addition, the government said that it would not grant visas for individuals under 17 years of age if they are not accompanied by close relatives. It would also not issue visas for women under 45 years of age with- out mahrams or male guardians, the report said.

A source told the newspaper that the Ministry of Haj would grant visas to women over the age of 45 without mahrams provided they are accompanied by other adult women who would ensure they return to their home countries.