Eastern region: A spokesperson for the Ministry of Defense, Major General Turki Al-Malki, announced that a drone attempting to approach a gas plant in the Eastern Region was intercepted and destroyed. There were no reports of damage following the incident.
According to Saudi Press Agency, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has issued guidelines to organize the departure of Umrah performers as the season draws to a close. The guidelines are aimed at facilitating travel procedures efficiently, ensuring smooth movements across various ports. The ministry emphasized the importance of travelers staying updated with information from airports and air carriers and verifying their flight status before heading to the airport.
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah also advised coordination with airlines and Umrah companies to confirm approved departure schedules. This coordination is intended to streamline procedures. The ministry further highlighted the importance of early preparation, such as packing luggage in advance and reviewing baggage requirements with air carriers, to ensure smooth departure procedures and avoid delays.
The ministry informed that Umrah performers wishing to ship Zamzam water must comply with regulations. These include purchasing bottles from designated airport points, ensuring proper packaging, and limiting each bottle to five liters. Key dates were also outlined: the first of Shawwal is the final date for issuing Umrah visas, the 15th of Shawwal is the last date for entry into the Kingdom, and the first of Dhul-Qi'dah is the final deadline for all Umrah visa holders to depart.
This initiative is part of the ministry's efforts to regulate departures and facilitate procedures. These efforts align with the leadership's directives to care for pilgrims and ensure they can perform their rituals and return to their countries with ease and reassurance. The ministry urged departing Umrah performers to review further instructions and guidelines through the Umrah and Visit Guide.