International pilgrims would soon be allowed to perform the Umrah.

This, as the Saudi Kingdom, is allowing direct flights into the country as of 1 Muharram, for the majority of countries except nine. They include South Africa, India, and Brazil.

This means that pilgrims from these countries would need to quarantine for 14 days in a third country before arriving in the kingdom. As a requirement, all pilgrims would need to be fully vaccinated.

Only 60 000 Muslims within the borders of Saudi Arabia were allowed to perform the pilgrimage. Where does this leave South Africans wanting to perform umrah?

Guest: Shaheen Essop – President, South African Hajj and Umrah Council (SAHUC)