India Post News Service

CHICAGO: Travel Agents all over North America are anxiously waiting for news from Saudi Embassy to start stamping Umrah visa for US citizens. But in keeping with its annual tradition, the Embassy has no good news for them. The announcement on Saudi Embassy website reads "The Saudi Consulate Office in Washington DC has the honor to inform all Muslims Umrah visas will be issued each year from the beginning of the month of Safar to the beginning of the month of Ramadan. Visas will be issued through licensed companies and travel agencies."

However, the month of "Safar" has begun with February 9 and ends by March 8. But the Saudi Embassy has not announced a date for starting Umrah visa to US citizens through its approved travel agents. According to travel agency sources, intending Umrah pilgrims had purchased travel plans as early as January this year expecting Umrah Visa from mid February.

A large number of travelers are booked for travel beginning next week to India or Pakistan performing Umrah en route by travel agents all over America. Most of the airline cheaper tickets are non-refundable and restricted allowing no changes. That is the cause for anxiety among travel agents. Many families have planned travel in view of Spring break holidays and agents have booked as per the announcement by Saudi Embassy on its website.

When this report tried to contact embassy officials, there was no response.Meanwhile, Saudi Embassy is reported to be issuing transit visa to US citizens and allowing them to perform Umrah within 72 hours. As many devout Muslims feel that 72 hours are not enough to pray in Medinah or Makkah, majority of Umrah travelers prefer Umrah visa for staying in Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for at least a week or more.

A senior travel agent in Chicago has suggested that intending travelers should also call Saudi Embassy Washington at 202-342-3800 and request for a clear announcement of Umrah Visa dates so that their travel plans are not spoiled. US citizens are also requested to raise concern with their area senators in this matter.