From the news desk

Less SA umrah pilgrims over Easter

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Umrah operators have reported a decrease in pilgrims performing umrah this Easter than previous years. While thousands of South African mutamireen were seen flocking to the Holy Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to perform their umrah during April in previous years, South African Travel Haj and Umrah Association (SATHOA) chairperson Sedick Steenkamp attributes the decline in numbers to the large influx of travellers during the festive season in December 2014.

“There had been a large increase in the amount of mu’tamireen travelling during the school holidays in December. Now, it has become a lot more quieter for South Africa. However, here in Saudi, you still see large numbers of other nationalities streaming into the Kingdom,” Steenkamp said.

Other factors such as the cost structure, construction in the Kingdom and Saudi weather patterns, all influence the decision to travel.

“Our rand is very volatile at the moment against the Saudi Riyal, prices have gone up and our rand has weakened. People need to make sure they are financially prepared and more importantly they need to make sure they are spiritually prepared.”

Steenkamp urged Muslims in South Africa to make their intention and complete their umrah or haj as soon as they can.
“We see many South Africans drift towards travelling to Saudi during the Ramadaan due to the price, however, people must take cognisance of the quota imposed by the Saudi Ministry during that period which does not always guarantee one a visa,” Steenkamp advised.

He reminded those intending to go on umrah or hajj to begin a healthy lifestyle before they depart as most of the time, cheaper living quarters are found further away from the Haram which compels one to walk long distances. It is of utmost importance that South Africans are well prepared before they depart for umrah or hajj.

“Please ensure that you book with an accredited umrah operator. So that you can ensure that if there are any issues, you know where to take it up.” VOC (Ra’eesah Isaacs)


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