ISLAMABAD: Dr. Tawfiq Bin Fawzan Al Rabiah, Saudi minister for Hajj and Umrah, stated Pakistani travellers’ umrah visas will be extended to 90 days and more locations in Makkah and Madinah will be opened for pilgrims to enhance religious tourism.
Dr. Tawfiq and interim Minister for Religious Affairs Aneeq Ahmed revealed the Saudi government’s decision at a press conference.
The minister assured Pakistani and Saudi officials of close cooperation in assisting Pakistani pilgrims to Saudi Arabia.
Moreover, He stated that the two holy cities are opening 100 more historical and religious sites to enhance religious tourism. Dr. Tawfiq also discussed Riyadh’s attempts to lower pilgrims’ Hajj costs, as Pakistan and Saudi Arabia are brothers.
The minister said he discussed numerous key matters while in Pakistan, where civil aviation authorities signed a deal to enhance flights between the two countries.
Biometric Exemption
His Pakistani counterpart asked biometric exemption for Pakistanis over 65 wanting to do Hajj and Umrah. Due to an enlargement of the two holy mosques, he requested alternative sites for Pakistan Houses in Makkah and Madinah.
Dr. Tawfiq separate calls on President Arif Alvi and caretaker Prime Minister Anwar-ul-Haq Kakar. Dr. Alvi urged for stronger economic ties with Saudi Arabia.
Pakistan treasured its relations with the kingdom, based on faith, history, and people-to-people relationships. Dr. Alvi stressed the need to increase bilateral commerce in Pakistan’s IT, renewable energy, industrial, and infrastructure sectors.
While, The president praised Saudi Arabia for its superb Hajj arrangements this year and hoped it would speed up the acquisition of Pakistan House in Madina from the compensation cash of two demolished Pakistan Houses.
Moreover, He praised the monarchy for its consistent support for Muslim concerns, including the Jammu and Kashmir dispute, Palestine, and Afghanistan through the OIC. He praised Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman for normalising Iran relations.
Later, the Saudi minister met with the temporary prime minister, who welcomed the delegation and praised bilateral cooperation. He praised Mohammed Bin Salman’s ambition and stated Saudi Arabia would always trust Pakistan.
He complimented the Saudi leadership for creating exceptional preparations for pilgrims from around the world, especially Pakistanis, during this Hajj season.
While, Pakistani Hajj and Umrah pilgrims should continue to enjoy special treatment from Saudi Arabia. He commended Saudi Arabia for its SIFC investment interest in Pakistan.
