Saudi announces increase in capacity of umrah pilgrims to 100,000 a day

KUALA LUMPUR: Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Haj and Umrah has announced the increase in capacity of umrah pilgrims to 100,000 starting today.

The number of obligatory prayer congregants has also been increased - to 60,000 people.

According to the ministry's Twitter account, it is coordinating with relevant agencies in implementing a strategic plan that focuses on health and safety in preparation for receiving 3.5 million pilgrims and visitors a month.

In early September, the ministry announced that a total of 10 million pilgrims had performed umrah since the launch of the 'safe Umrah model' on October 4, 2020.

In addition, the ministry also revealed that more than 12,000 visas have been issued by the Saudi government to welcome pilgrims from various countries since August 10.

Meanwhile, the General Presidency for the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet's Mosque said it's ready to receive more pilgrims from inside and outside of Saudi Arabia as well as provide the best service to facilitate all pilgrims' affairs.

"All operations and preparations welcome the arrival of pilgrims are in accordance with standard operating procedures (SOP) and all preventive measures set by the Saudi Arabian government to facilitate pilgrims to perform umrah", he said.

-- BERNAMA