The Saudi General Aviation Authority (GACA) introduced new regulations for Umrah pilgrims, explicitly targeting those traveling on visas issued after the 15th of Shawwal. These rules are strict and would result in severe punishment if violated.
Under immediate instructions, travelers who hold Umrah visas before the 15th of Shawwal will not be allowed into the kingdom. According to the government, this move will improve the organization of the annual pilgrimage.
The sudden policy change created extreme disruption and confusion, particularly for airlines and travelers already in motion. Airlines are under fire for issuing boarding passes to the pilgrims. These violations are punishable under Saudi law.
This change of rules led to many chaotic scenes at airports, including the case of flight SV 700 to Karachi. Due to capacity restrictions, the passengers with boarding passes were suddenly offloaded.
More than 60 Umrah pilgrims from Sanghar’s Jafar Khan Leghari area, famous for its strong pilgrimage tradition, are still stranded in Saudi Arabia. This group includes vulnerable older women and children who have been waiting for over 24 hours.
The wait is leading to growing frustration and protests. Airport authorities temporarily relocated the stranded pilgrims to a hotel while they work to arrange alternative flights. However, the lack of timely communication and resolution is causing great distress.
This setback caused the pilgrims and their families back home a lot of anxiety, who are demanding immediate action to bring their loved ones home. The incident highlighted the challenges of implementing sudden policy changes during peak travel times.