SAMTOA Announces Conditions for South African Umrah Travelers
According to the association, the quarantine restrictions have been lifted for the pilgrims, provided that they have received both doses of the COVID-19 vaccines approved by the Saudis.
Ismail Olla, the secretary general of SAMTOA told the country’s Al-Qalam newspaper that the announcement to open up Umrah pilgrimage for South African travelers has been welcomed with elation and enthusiasm.
He noted that those wishing to go on the pilgrimage must be 18 years of age or older, the Iranian Cultural Center in South Africa reported.
He said there would be no quarantine when the pilgrims arrive in the kingdom.
There will only be one Umrah travel to Saudi Arabia for every individual, according to the official, who said every pilgrim will be allowed to do the Tawaf (circumambulation around the Kaaba) only once during the trip.
He said pilgrims need to make a reservation for offering prayers at the Grand Mosque in Mecca but there is no need for that at the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina.
Olla also said that South African pilgrims must register for Umrah pilgrimage at least 14 days before departure.
Unlike Hajj pilgrimage that is performed in the month of Dhul Hajjm, Umrah (minor Hajj) can be undertaken by Muslims at any time of the year.
Saudi Arabia introduced restrictions in Umrah pilgrimage after the outbreak of the coronavirus in 2019.
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