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Egypt introduces new regulations for Umrah trips to enhance pilgrim services and oversight
via Egypt Today2 min read
Egypt's Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, Sherif Fathy, approved new regulations for Umrah trips for the 1448 AH season, developed by the Supreme Committee for Umrah and Hajj. These measures aim to streamline the organization of the new season, improve services for Egyptian pilgrims, and strengthen monitoring systems from contract signing to their return. Key provisions include the launch of the "Rafeeq" electronic application for pilgrims and supervisors, requiring tourism companies to ensure pilgrims download the app and upload contractual documents. Companies must promptly respond to reports via the app and other official channels, and issue identification cards with trip details for each pilgrim. Advertising Umrah programs without notifying the General Directorate of Religious Tourism is prohibited, and advertisements must include full program details. Exemptions apply for programs from the 15th of Sha'ban to the 17th of Ramadan, extending to a maximum of 35 days. New Umrah trips will not be approved until 70 percent of a company's pilgrims have returned, and during peak months, new trips are contingent on previous trips returning, with a maximum of three trips remaining in the Kingdom. Airlines must provide meals for delays up to six hours and accommodation for longer delays. An electronic system will track Umrah buses outside Egypt, and land trip buses must be 2022 models or newer and technically sound. An integrated electronic system will also evaluate service quali
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Egypt Today.
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