No ban on Qatari pilgrims, says Saudi Arabia

JEDDAH: Maj. Gen. Sulaiman Al-Yahya, head of the General Directorate of Passports, has denied reports that Qatari pilgrims have been banned from entering Saudi Arabia to perform Hajj.

“Qatari brothers are currently entering the Kingdom to visit relatives,” Al-Yahya was quoted by Al-Jazirah daily as saying.

Al-Yahya’s remarks refute false reports citing Abdullah Al-Azbah, the media adviser to Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani.

Qatar’s National Human Rights Committee (NHRC) lodged a complaint with the UN falsely accusing the Kingdom of “politicizing” Hajj and putting obstacles in the way of Qatari citizens and residents desiring to perform Hajj and Umrah.

Last month, the General Presidency for the affairs of the Two Holy Mosques denied news reports of a ban on Qatari pilgrims, terming them as “fake.”

Saudi leaders have stressed that services will be provided for pilgrims from around the world, including Qatari pilgrims, a statement issued by the presidency said.

However, the Qatari Ministry of Islamic Affairs suspended registration of potential pilgrims on its website, with observers saying that the step was intentional and aims to spoil the Hajj season for Qatari citizens and residents, according to local media.

The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has welcomed Qatari pilgrims despite the Kingdom severing ties with Doha over accusations of supporting terrorism.

Qatari pilgrims can fly to Saudi Arabia with any carrier except Qatar Airways, the ministry said.

They should enter only through King Abdul Aziz International Airport in Jeddah and Prince Mohammed bin Abdul Aziz Airport in Madinah during the current Hajj season, the ministry said.