Saudi Arabia Introduces Mandatory Guidelines for Safe Umrah Pilgrimage: Read Details
The measures aim to enhance safety, improve service quality, and ensure a seamless journey for worshippers visiting the holy sites.

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s General Authority for the Care of the Two Holy Mosques has issued new guidelines mandating Umrah pilgrims to utilize authorized transportation services during their pilgrimage. The measures aim to enhance safety, improve service quality, and ensure a seamless journey for worshippers visiting the holy sites.
Focus on Safety and Compliance
Under the new rules, all Umrah pilgrims are required to select officially approved and supervised transportation services. This includes authorized public buses and licensed taxi services that display verified driver information and company credentials.
Compliance with these regulations is critical to ensuring a safe and secure pilgrimage. Officials emphasized that adherence not only protects pilgrims from potential risks but also avoids any legal ramifications for those who fail to follow the guidelines.
Integration of Smart Technology
As part of the initiative, Saudi authorities are promoting the use of smart mobile applications to facilitate transportation bookings. These platforms allow pilgrims to access driver evaluations, check service quality, and make informed decisions before their journey.
In addition, electronic payment methods are being strongly recommended over cash transactions to minimize security risks. The move aligns with the Kingdom’s broader efforts to integrate digital solutions into the pilgrimage experience, ensuring convenience and safety for millions of visitors.
Preparation for the Ramadan Pilgrimage Surge
With Ramadan approaching, Saudi authorities are ramping up preparations to manage the anticipated surge in Umrah pilgrims. The holy month sees an influx of worshippers performing the sacred rituals of Tawaf (circling the Kaaba seven times) and Sa’i (walking between the Safa and Marwah hills) at the Grand Mosque in Makkah.
Officials have stressed that pilgrims who utilize licensed transportation services alongside innovative technological solutions will experience smoother and safer journeys, allowing them to focus entirely on their spiritual practices.
Commitment to a Secure and Spiritual Experience
“These measures reflect our commitment to ensuring a safe and comfortable pilgrimage experience for all worshippers,” said a representative from the General Authority for the Care of the Two Holy Mosques. “By integrating smart solutions with licensed transportation options, we are prioritizing the well-being of pilgrims as they fulfill their religious obligations.”
As the Kingdom continues to enhance its infrastructure and services for religious tourism, these guidelines mark a significant step in safeguarding the spiritual journey of millions of Umrah pilgrims worldwide.