Saudi Arabia to allow Umrah pilgrims free movement to boost tourism

Umrah pilgrims will be granted the freedom to visit anywhere in the Kingdom during their stay, the Saudi Press Agency reported, citing an announcement from the cabinet.

“Muslims making the holy pilgrimage will be allowed to tour anywhere in the country as part of Saudi Arabia’s plans to boost tourism and the economy,” the cabinet said.

“The Cabinet has decided to exclude people, coming to perform Umrah and visit the Prophet’s Mosque, of movement ban outside Makkah, Madinah, and Jeddah. A royal decree has been prepared to this effect,” it further added.

Previously, Umrah pilgrims were restricted to the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah and the port city of Jeddah.