One of the first groups of South Africans are in the early stages of the Umrah.

This as Saudi Arabia had put stringent travel restrictions in place, preventing international pilgrims from performing Hajj and Umrah during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The pilgrims leaving from Cape Town International Airport have told Radio 786 of their relief and excitement of finally being able to travel to the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah and perform their Umrah.

Shumeez Jacobs-Kamish says that she is experiencing mixed feelings about her journey, as she will be performing the umrah without her husband.

He passed away last year due to Covid-pneumonia.

[Header image: Radio 786]