Saudi authorities have set a dress code for Muslim women while performing Umrah or lesser pilgrimage at the Grand Mosque in Mecca.

The kingdom’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah said female worshippers are entitled to wear the attire they like during the rituals, provided they comply with certain rules.

The attire must be loose fitting, free of ornaments and cover the woman’s body, the ministry posted on X, formerly known as Twitter.

The rules were highlighted as the Umrah season picks up momentum in Saudi Arabia.

Saudi Arabia expects around 10 million Muslims from abroad to make Umrah pilgrimage at the Grand Mosque in Mecca during the current season that got underway almost two months ago. 

The season began after the end of the annual Islamic Hajj pilgrimage that around 1.8 million Muslims attended for the first time in three years after pandemic-related restrictions were lifted.

Muslims, who cannot physically or financially afford Hajj, go to Saudi Arabia to make Umrah pilgrimage.

In recent months, Saudi Arabia has unveiled a host of facilities for overseas Muslims to come to the country to do Umrah.

Muslims holding different types of entry visas such as the personal, visit and tourist visas are allowed to undertake Umrah and visit Al Rawda Al Sharifa, where the tomb of the Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) is located at the Prophet’s Mosque after booking an e-appointment.

Saudi authorities have extended the Umrah visa from 30 days to 90 and allowed holders to enter the kingdom via all land, air and sea outlets and leave from any airport. Women pilgrims are no longer required to be escorted by male guardians.

The kingdom has also said that expatriates residing in the Gulf Cooperation Council countries are eligible to apply for a tourist visa, regardless of their profession, and be able to perform Umrah.

Source: Gulf News

BDST: 2005 HRS, SEP 15, 2023
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