JAKARTA — Saudi Arabian authorities have taken decisive action against an umrah service provider and its overseas agent after they left pilgrims stranded without hotel facilities on Sunday, December 28, 2025. The suspension came after the company failed to deliver contracted accommodation services to pilgrims.

According to an official statement from the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), the Ministry emphasized that this negligence constitutes a serious violation of regulations governing umrah pilgrimage services and visitors to the Two Holy Mosques.

Breach of Contract Triggers Swift Action

Authorities discovered that numerous pilgrims had arrived in Saudi Arabia without guaranteed accommodation, despite such services being explicitly outlined in their contractual agreements. This revelation prompted immediate legal action against both the company and its associated agents to preserve service integrity.

“These measures are intended to protect the rights of affected pilgrims, prevent similar violations from recurring, and ensure continuous improvement in service quality,” the Ministry’s official statement declared.

Pattern of Violations

This enforcement action is not an isolated incident in 2025. In June of the same year, the Ministry suspended seven other umrah companies due to their inability to provide adequate transportation services for pilgrims.

Millions Continue Flocking to Holy Sites

Data from the Ministry of Hajj and the General Authority for the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques reveals sustained enthusiasm among global Muslims. More than 1.7 million pilgrims from around the world arrived in Saudi Arabia to perform umrah during the month of Jumada al-Akhirah alone.

Jumada al-Akhirah, the sixth month in the Hijri calendar, concluded on December 20, 2025, in the Gregorian calendar for the year 1447 Hijriah.

Warning to Global Travel Agents

The Saudi government’s firm stance serves as a stern warning to all travel agencies worldwide, including those in Indonesia. Every agent is required to honor their contracts to ensure pilgrims’ comfort and the sanctity of their worship experience. This enforcement underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to elevating service standards and strengthening legal protections for international pilgrims.

The Kingdom’s zero-tolerance approach to service violations demonstrates its dedication to safeguarding the spiritual journey of millions who visit the holy sites annually, ensuring that commercial operators maintain the highest standards of accountability and service delivery.

Original Article:

Harian Jogja. (2025, December 29). Arab Saudi Tangguhkan Perusahaan Umrah yang Telantarkan Jemaah.  Retrieved from https://news.harianjogja.com/read/2025/12/29/500/1240779/arab-saudi-tangguhkan-perusahaan-umrah-yang-telantarkan-jemaah