THE Saudi government will charge pilgrims 300 riyals (RM325) each for visas issued starting this year’s haj season, said Mujahid Yusof Rawa.

The minister in the Prime Minister’s Department said the new fee applies to pilgrims from all countries, including Malaysia.

“This (visa fee) is a new thing introduced by Saudi Arabia, and (Malaysia) has no choice but to accept the decision.

“In addition, Saudi Arabia has abolished the fee of 2,000 riyals imposed on repeat haj pilgrims,” he told a special press conference at Kuala Lumpur International Airport today, shortly after arriving back in Malaysia following a three-day visit to Saudi Arabia.

He said he was informed about the new fee during a meeting with Saudi Haj and Umrah Minister Mohammad Saleh Taher Benten.

At the meeting, both parties signed an agreement on managing the arrival of Malaysian pilgrims in Saudi Arabia and the services provided during their stay.

Mujahid said the deal maintains the Road to Mecca initiative, a haj pre-clearance system at KLIA.

Under the initiative, pilgrims’ fingerprints are taken, their passports are stamped in Malaysia and their entry into Saudi Arabia is treated like a domestic flight. Their luggage is also taken directly to their accommodation.

Mujahid added that Riyadh is ready to continue with the Eyab initiative, a pilot project to facilitate pilgrims’ departure, at special terminals at Jeddah and Medina airports.

“This is another achievement in our negotiations, showing the level of trust that (Saudi Arabia) has in us.”

Malaysia is one of three countries selected by the Saudi government for the project, which will be implemented this year. – Bernama, January 22, 2020.