According to recent developments, Saudi has increased Hajj visa charges by six folds, making the Hajj pilgrimage an expensive affair. The move, has in fact angered many muslim countries and has also triggered protests. This news came as a blow, especially after the country recently opened doors to tourists across 49 countries. Marking the World Tourism Day, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia opened doors to tourists who wished to visit the country for more than religious purpose. In addition, the kingdom also announced new visa rules, applicable with immediate effect.
What’s It?
In a sudden announcement, Saudi announced a staggering rise in Hajj visa fee, triggering anger among pilgrim-goers. The country raised its short-term visa price almost six-folds, making the trip an expensive affair.
According to the recent change, a single entry visa will now cost $533, up from $93, a multiple entry, 6-month visa would cost $800 and a one-year visa would cost $1,333. The new visa fee is applicable to all travelers visiting the country for religious, business or tourism purposes. However, the revised visa charges do not apply to those traveling to Hajj for the first time. Besides, those traveling on non-mandatory pilgrimage- ‘Umrah’, will also not be affected by the new visa policy.
The Hajj pilgrimage is, in general an expensive trip, involving hefty lodging and transportation fee. Saudi’s Ministry of Finance and Economy, initiated the move in order to increase revenue. The move was brought into effect on 2 October.
What Else?
After opening doors to tourism, The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia also announced yet another good news for international travelers. Unmarried couples traveling to Saudi on vacation can now share rooms. The Saudi Commission for Tourism and National Heritage recently approved the new tourism regulation.
Until recently, couples who checked into a hotel had to provide proof of marriage, but this has now been relaxed for international tourists. Saudi nationals however, will still have to provide marriage proof before sharing rooms. The new law also permits foreign women traveling to the Kingdom to book rooms.
Previously, international women tourists under the age of 45 had to be accompanied by a man (mahram), when they traveled to the country during Hajj. Click here for full news.