Saudi Arabia has extended the Umrah visa for Pakistani pilgrims to 90 days. This means that people going for religious pilgrimage will have more time for their journey. The Saudi Minister for Hajj and Umrah, Dr. Tawfiq Bin Fawzan Al Rabiah, announced this decision to promote religious tourism in Saudi Arabia. He also mentioned that more places in Makkah and Madinah will be opened for pilgrims.
Dr. Tawfiq talked about the close relationship between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia during a press conference with Pakistan’s caretaker Minister for Religious Affairs, Aneeq Ahmed. He shared that the two countries are working closely to make the pilgrimage better for Pakistani visitors.
He also said that Saudi Arabia is opening 100 more historical and religious sites in the holy cities to encourage religious tourism. Dr. Tawfiq discussed efforts to reduce Hajj expenses for pilgrims and talked about the strong friendship between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.
While in Pakistan, Dr. Tawfiq met with President Arif Alvi and caretaker Prime Minister Anwar-ul-Haq Kakar. President Alvi expressed the importance of strong ties between the two countries, especially in terms of the economy. He thanked Saudi Arabia for supporting Muslim causes and praised Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman for efforts in building relations.
The Saudi minister also met with Pakistan’s caretaker Prime Minister, who welcomed the delegation and spoke positively about the relationship between the countries. The prime minister thanked Saudi Arabia for taking care of Hajj pilgrims and hoped that Pakistani pilgrims would continue to receive special treatment.
Overall, Saudi Arabia’s efforts to make the pilgrimage experience better and strengthen ties with Pakistan were highlighted during these discussions.
