MUMBAI: Tour operators here are telling pilgrims planning to go for Umrah to get vaccinated before they perform the rituals, following a Saudi health ministry advisory.
A few days back Saudi Arabia’s minister of Haj and Umrah Muhammad Saleh Benten had advised all those who wish to perform Umrah pilgrimage to get vaccinated against coronavirus as the Saudi authorities will ensure precautions are taken to stop the spread of the pandemic.
“This is good advice and all who wish to go for Umrah should get vaccinated at least a month before they undertake the holy trip. Two doses 21 days apart are needed, and it will be advisable if they get it in time for the Umrah,” said Yusuf Ahmed Khereda of Al Khalid Tours & Travels.
He added that since the Saudi government had announced lifting of a travel ban and allowed international flights to resume operations from March 31, no Umrah for Indian pilgrims can happen before April.
Earlier, Union minister for minority affairs Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi had said efforts were being made to give the vaccine to all pilgrims going for Haj from India this year. While Umrah can be performed multiple times through the year, the five-day Haj rituals are conducted annually.
The last date for submission of forms for Haj 2021 was January 10. Haj 2021 will be held in June-July.