KSA grants permit to int'l airlines to fly in Umrah pilgrims

Dhaka: The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) has granted permits to international airlines to fly in the Umrah pilgrims.

The news has sent waves of joy across Muslim countries. The pilgrims having valid visas would be able to fly in the Kingdom for performing the Umrah rituals.

Previously the Kingdom had suspended the Umrah services in order to control the spread of the novel coronavirus.

As per reports, Saudi Arabia has allowed all the airlines to resume flight operations bringing in visitors with a valid visit and Umrah visas in the country.

General Authority of Civil Aviation has officially issued a notification to that effect applies on an immediate basis.

GACA has instructed the airlines to strictly ensure coronavirus Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) implementation and has categorically stated implementation of COVID-19 SOPs extends to all sorts of travelers flying into the Kingdom.

It is pertinent to mention that since the suspension was imposed on flight operations in the country, it's the first time international airlines are allowed to land in KSA.

The government of Saudi Arabia announced fresh measures for the Umrah pilgrimage, which was suspended for six months due to the coronavirus outbreak.

The barricade placed around the Kaaba and the holy Black Stone will remain in its place and visitors would be barred from touching them.

Masjid al-Haram will be disinfected ten times a day, while quarantine rooms have already been established for visitors having symptoms of COVID-19.