HOW IT WORKS

Earlier in September, Saudi Arabia announced that Muslims in the kingdom on a visit or a tourist visa can perform Umrah after obtaining a permit by completing procedures on Eatmarna and Tawakkalna apps. Opening an account on Eatmarna is possible only after updating the visitor’s immune health status on the Tawakkalna app.

“Only those who are immune by taking two doses of coronavirus vaccine or completion of 14 days after taking the first dose of the vaccine. Also, those recovered from the coronavirus infection are entitled to obtain an Umrah permit,” the ministry said.

Around 500 Umrah service companies and more than 6,000 foreign Umrah agents have started receiving vaccinated foreign Umrah pilgrims from August 9. Pilgrims can book Umrah packages and make all the payments through 30 electronic sites and digital platforms that are available for reservations worldwide.