Saudi authorities have suspended an Umrah company and its foreign agent after pilgrims arrived without the accommodation promised in their approved travel programmes. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah announced the suspension following the company’s failure to provide lodging despite it being listed in contracts. Some pilgrims reached Saudi Arabia without secured housing, prompting swift action. The Saudi Press Agency quoted the ministry saying the company’s failure "constituted a clear violation of regulations governing services for Umrah pilgrims and visitors to the Two Holy Mosques." Legal measures were taken against both the Umrah company and its overseas agent. The ministry added, "The measures are intended to safeguard the rights of affected pilgrims, prevent a recurrence of such violations, and ensure the continued enhancement of service quality." Officials emphasized that any shortcomings in contracted services would not be tolerated and that protecting pilgrim rights is a top priority. This suspension follows a trend of tighter controls. Last June, seven Umrah companies were suspended over transport-related issues. In the Islamic month of Jumada Al Akhira, ending in December 2025, over 1.7 million Muslims performed Umrah. Managing this large flow has led to stricter requirements. Saudi authorities now require confirmed hotel bookings and local transport arrangements before issuing Umrah visas. These are verified through official digital platforms such as Nusuk Masar or Nusuk Umrah. Operators, including those serving pilgrims from India and the UAE, urge travelers to complete these steps before visa applications. From this year, visa approvals depend on digitally verified accommodation and transport contracts linked through Nusuk. Authorities say this step aims to prevent fraud, avoid last-minute disruptions, and create a fully digitized Umrah service in line with Saudi Vision 2030 to improve the pilgrim experience.