The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has suspended 21 Umrah companies from providing services, citing weak performance and breaches of the regulations governing pilgrim services. The decision was announced through the Saudi Press Agency on June 13, 2026, as the Kingdom prepares to launch the new Umrah season.

According to the ministry, the suspensions followed the performance evaluation of the previous season. That review revealed a drop in service quality among several firms and uncovered violations of the rules that organise the Umrah services sector.

Why the companies were suspended

The ministry explained that the suspension order covered two distinct groups of firms. Fifteen companies were halted because of low performance scores measured against approved performance indicators. A further six companies were stopped after they committed violations of the regulations and instructions that govern Umrah service activity, which required formal action to be taken against them.

The ministry said its evaluation system relies on operational and supervisory indicators. These measure the quality of services delivered and how closely companies comply with the organisational rules and conditions. The aim, officials said, is to strengthen competition among service providers, raise overall performance, and meet the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 by delivering a distinguished and safe experience for those performing Umrah and visiting the Prophet's Mosque.

Part of early season preparations

The action comes as the ministry finalises its early preparations for the 1448 AH Umrah season. Saudi Arabia opened Umrah visa applications on May 31, 2026, with pilgrims able to enter Makkah and obtain permits through the Nusuk application from June 1. Visa issuance runs until March 9, 2027, and the final date for pilgrim entry is March 23, 2027.

The ministry stressed that it will continue to apply the regulations firmly. It said it will not tolerate any shortcoming that affects the quality of services or the rights of the guests of God. Continuous evaluation of Umrah service providers, the ministry added, is one of the main tools used to develop the sector and improve the standard of services offered.

What it means for pilgrims

For pilgrims abroad, the message is one of accountability. The ministry's monitoring is designed to remove underperforming operators before they can affect travellers during the busy season. Affected bookings are typically reorganised so pilgrims are not left without service, though the ministry did not name the suspended firms in its statement.

Practical steps for those planning Umrah this season:

  • Book only through approved channels. All Umrah bookings, permits and packages must go through the Nusuk Umrah platform or an authorised agent linked to it.
  • Confirm your operator's status. Before paying, check that your travel company is currently licensed and active on Nusuk.
  • Keep records. Retain receipts and written confirmation of your accommodation, transport and visa so any disruption can be resolved quickly.
  • Report poor service. Complaints feed directly into the performance indicators the ministry uses, helping protect future pilgrims.

The suspensions underline a wider trend. Saudi authorities are tightening oversight of the entire pilgrimage sector, from mandatory staff training for Hajj operators to the consolidation of Umrah services under the Nusuk system. For pilgrims, the practical benefit is a stronger guarantee that licensed providers meet a consistent standard of care.