If you or your loved ones are planning a pilgrimage to the Holy Lands soon, take note of this crucial update. The Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS) and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) have issued advisories strongly urging Singaporeans to defer all travel to Saudi Arabia and consider postponing their Umrah plans due to heightened security risks in the region.
We know how much an Umrah journey means to our community—for many, it’s a deeply cherished spiritual milestone that takes years of saving, planning, and mental preparation. Here’s a breakdown of the current situation and what you should do if you have upcoming travel bookings.
What Is Happening?
On Tuesday (13 Oct), MFA issued a travel advisory advising Singaporeans to defer all travel to Saudi Arabia following an increase in missile and drone attacks targeting civilian aviation and energy infrastructure in the kingdom.
Recent repeated strikes on major transport hubs—including Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport (KKIA), as well as airports in Abha, Dammam, and Jizan—have led to flight diversions and airport operation suspensions.
Following MFA’s announcement, MUIS released an advisory on Wednesday (Oct 14) encouraging Singaporeans planning to perform Umrah to take heed of government guidance and consider postponing their trips while security risks remain elevated.
What Should You Do If You Have Bookings?
- Contact Your Travel Operator: MUIS encourages local Umrah travel agencies to provide pilgrims with clear information and flexible arrangements—such as rescheduling or postponing trips—where possible.
- Exercise Mutual Patience & Care: MUIS acknowledged that pilgrims may face financial strain through no fault of their own, urging operators to manage these cases with fairness, empathy, and understanding.
- If You Are Currently in Saudi Arabia: Remain calm, monitor local news closely, and strictly follow instructions from local authorities and MFA. Stay in close contact with your travel agents and airlines.
- eRegister with MFA: Singaporeans travelling abroad or currently in the Middle East are strongly advised to eRegister via the MFA portal so the ministry can establish contact if consular assistance is needed.
MUIS shared that they join pilgrims and their families in praying for regional stability to return soon, so that everyone may fulfil their intention to perform Umrah safely and with peace of mind when circumstances permit.
May Allah (SWT) keep all pilgrims and travellers safe, ease their affairs, and grant peace to the region.
Stay safe, stay informed, and share this update with family and friends who have upcoming travel plans!
