The Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities has announced that its committees in Saudi Arabia, tasked with monitoring the Umrah season, continue their fieldwork in Mecca and Medina. This effort aims to ensure that tourism companies adhere to the approved programs and provide quality services to Egyptian pilgrims. The move is part of the ministry's regulatory and oversight role to protect the rights of pilgrims and ensure their well-being during their stay in Saudi Arabia.
According to Samia Sami, Assistant Minister of Tourism for Tourism Companies and Chair of the Supreme Hajj and Umrah Committee, the ministry's committees in Saudi Arabia work around the clock to monitor the commitment of tourism companies to implementing approved Umrah programs. They also receive and address any observations that may affect the level of services provided to pilgrims. Sami emphasized the importance of cooperation with the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah and relevant Saudi authorities in swiftly addressing any issues that may arise.
The ministry's committees conduct regular inspections of hotels where Egyptian pilgrims reside in Mecca and Medina to ensure that tourism companies adhere to approved programs and provide contracted services. They also engage with pilgrims to gather feedback and address any complaints regarding accommodations, transportation, or services included in the program. This proactive approach enables the ministry to promptly address any concerns and ensure that pilgrims receive the services they have contracted.
In addition to monitoring and addressing complaints, the ministry's committees in Saudi Arabia introduce pilgrims to the "Rafiq" electronic application. This app, launched by the ministry for the first time this season, allows pilgrims and tourism company supervisors to digitally track and manage Umrah trips. The application facilitates communication between pilgrims, tourism companies, and the ministry's committees, enabling swift intervention in case of any issues that may arise during the pilgrimage.
The Egyptian Ministry of Tourism has designated two offices in Saudi Arabia to receive Egyptian pilgrims and representatives of Egyptian tourism companies, as well as to address any observations or complaints. These offices are located at the Makaram Ajyad hotel in Mecca and the Crown Plaza hotel in Medina. Pilgrims are encouraged to use the "Rafiq" application or visit these offices to report any issues or concerns, ensuring prompt attention and resolution.
The ministry's efforts aim to provide the best possible care for Egyptian pilgrims and ensure a smooth Umrah experience. By allocating dedicated offices and utilizing digital tools like the "Rafiq" application, the ministry demonstrates its commitment to protecting the rights of pilgrims and delivering high-quality services.
As the Umrah season continues, the ministry's committees will remain vigilant, monitoring the implementation of approved programs and addressing any concerns that may arise. Egyptian pilgrims are advised to reach out to the ministry's offices or use the "Rafiq" application if they encounter any issues or have concerns about the services provided.
Key points
- The Egyptian Ministry of Tourism has allocated two offices in Saudi Arabia to receive complaints from Egyptian pilgrims and has pledged to intervene immediately in case of any issues.
