Saudi Arabia has introduced a mandatory meal policy for Umrah pilgrims from Pakistan and three other countries. The new system aims to improve food services by integrating catering charges into the Umrah visa process.
Daily Meal Fee Added To Umrah Visa
According to international media reports, the policy will take effect from 1st Rabi-ul-Awwal. Initially, it will apply to pilgrims from Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, and Egypt.
Under the new system, each pilgrim will pay 20 Saudi riyals daily through Nasik meal vouchers. Moreover, the amount will be included directly in the Umrah visa fee.
The arrangement follows the existing model used for mandatory transportation charges through the Nasik platform. Consequently, pilgrims will no longer pay catering fees separately.
Additionally, Saudi authorities are connecting more than 10,000 restaurants to the Nasik application. The initiative will allow pilgrims to access approved meal services throughout their stay.
Meal Code Linked To Pilgrim’s Visa
Every Umrah pilgrim will receive a unique BRN meal code before visa issuance. The code will be linked to the pilgrim’s visa and accepted at registered restaurants.
Furthermore, officials will calculate the total voucher value according to each pilgrim’s stay in Saudi Arabia. Authorities will verify the amount before issuing the visa.
Saudi officials said the programme will initially cover pilgrims from four countries. However, they plan to expand the policy to additional nations in future phases.
The new system is also expected to affect Umrah tour operators. They will now need to include mandatory catering charges in their travel packages.
Saudi authorities said the policy seeks to streamline meal services, improve convenience, and ensure pilgrims receive access to approved dining facilities during Umrah.
