As Ramadan unfolds worldwide, many Muslims traditionally travel to Saudi Arabia to perform Umrah, cherishing this period’s spiritual benefits. Unlike Hajj, a once-in-a-lifetime obligation for physically and financially capable Muslims, Umrah can be undertaken multiple times during a visit, depending on the duration of one’s stay.
However, the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has restricted Ramadan, limiting Muslims to a single Umrah performance throughout the holy month. This decision is particularly impactful during Ramadan when the Umrah season reaches its zenith at the Grand Mosque of Makkah, the most sacred site in Islam.
The announcement was made through an official channel associated with the Haramain, which includes the Grand Mosque of Makkah and the Prophet’s (PBUH) Mosque. According to the ministry’s statement, the restriction aims to reduce overcrowding and congestion, thus enabling more pilgrims to partake in Umrah during this blessed month.
The ministry emphasized that permits for performing Umrah more than once in Ramadan would not be issued, advising believers to limit themselves to a minor pilgrimage. This step is among several initiatives Saudi authorities took to facilitate a smooth and comfortable pilgrimage experience amid the expected surge of devotees during Ramadan.
To further accommodate pilgrims, specific areas of the mosque, including the Mataf (circumambulation courtyard around the Holy Kaaba) and the ground floor, have been designated exclusively for Umrah pilgrims.
