The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has suspended 21 Umrah service companies from operating, citing weak performance and breaches of the rules that govern services for pilgrims. The decision was announced by the Saudi Press Agency on June 13, 2026, as the Kingdom prepares to launch the 1448 AH Umrah season.

According to the ministry, the suspensions followed performance evaluations of the previous season. The reviews exposed a drop in service quality among several firms and uncovered violations of the regulations that organize the Umrah services sector. The move forms part of the ministry early preparations for the new season and its drive to protect the experience of the guests of God.

Why the companies were suspended

The ministry explained that the suspension covered two groups of firms. Fifteen companies were stopped because of low performance scores measured against approved performance indicators. A further six companies were penalized for breaching the regulations and instructions that govern Umrah service activity, which required formal action to be taken against them.

The ministry said its evaluation system relies on operational and supervisory indicators. These measure the quality of services delivered and the extent to which companies comply with organizational controls and requirements. According to the ministry, this approach is designed to strengthen competition between service providers, raise overall performance, and support the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 of delivering a distinguished and safe experience for those performing Umrah and visitors to the Prophet's Mosque.

A firmer stance on service quality

The ministry stressed that it will continue to apply the rules and instructions firmly. It stated that it will not tolerate any shortcoming that affects service quality or the rights of pilgrims. Continuous evaluation of Umrah companies, the ministry said, is one of the main tools for developing the sector and improving the standard of services offered.

The timing is significant. Saudi Arabia began issuing 1448 AH Umrah visas at the end of May 2026, and pilgrims have been able to enter Makkah and obtain Umrah permits through the Nusuk application since the start of June. Acting before the new season builds momentum allows the ministry to remove underperforming operators before large numbers of pilgrims arrive.

What this means for pilgrims

The suspensions are a reminder that the company a pilgrim books with directly shapes the quality of accommodation, transport, and on-the-ground support during the journey. Pilgrims planning Umrah this season should take practical steps to protect themselves.

  • Book through licensed providers only. Use companies authorized on the official Nusuk platform and verify that the operator is currently active and in good standing.
  • Confirm services in writing. Make sure accommodation, transport, and meal arrangements are clearly documented before paying in full.
  • Keep records. Retain booking confirmations, receipts, and any communication with the company in case a complaint becomes necessary.
  • Report problems. Use the official channels of the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah to raise complaints about poor service so that the evaluation system can act on them.

For pilgrims, the message from the ministry is reassuring. The Kingdom is monitoring service providers closely and is willing to remove those that fall short. Choosing a reputable, licensed company remains the single most important decision a pilgrim can make to ensure a smooth and spiritually focused Umrah.