Saudi Arabia issued 4,000 pilgrimage visas for Jordanians this year

AMMAN — Saudi Arabia has issued about 4,000 pilgrimage visas for Jordanians this year, Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah Tawfiq Al Rabiah announced on Thursday.

During a press conference at the Saudi Embassy in Amman, Rabiah highlighted coordination with the Jordanian Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs on arrangements for the 2022 Hajj season, noting that accommodation places to receive Jordanian pilgrims are "ready".

Saudi Arabia will welcome a total of one million pilgrims this year, he said, noting that guest numbers were decreased to ensure their safety in light of the pandemic. He added that the Hajj smart card, to be implemented this year, would help in facilitating the pilgrims' movement.

The minister also highlighted a newly launched e-service that allows those wishing to perform umrah (the lesser Muslim pilgrimage to Mecca) to apply online to obtain a visa within 24 hours, with a validity of three months.