THE cost of performing umrah is expected to increase following the enforcement of new standard operating procedure (SOP) to contain the Covid-19 pandemic implemented by the Saudi Arabian government.

Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Dr Zulkifli Mohamad Al Bakri said most of the increase in cost was related to physical distancing as well as hotel room and bus capacity limit.

“For example, the number of pilgrims in a room is limited to two people compared to four to six persons before the pandemic hit, while the bus capacity is limited to 50%.

“The number of pilgrims in Masjid al-Haram as well as for the tawaf and saei rituals is also limited just like during the recent Haj season which was only allowed to 60,000 people,” Zulkifli said in a statement today.

Zulkifli said that therefore, he hopes those who wish to perform umrah would abide by the new rules and comply with the SOP set to ensure the safety of all parties. 

On August 1, Saudi Arabia reopened its doors to tourists from 49 countries, including Malaysia, by simplifying procedures to obtain an entry visa for a period of one year and allowing a stay of up to 90 days in the country.

However, the government is still waiting for more details on the matter from Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Haj and Umrah, he said. – Bernama, August 15, 2021.