MAKKAH — The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has suspended 21 Umrah service companies from providing services for pilgrims after detection of violations and poor performance. The penal action follows the results of performance evaluations conducted during the previous season. It was revealed in performance evaluation that there has been a decline in service quality among several operators and violations of regulations governing Umrah service providers.The decision reflects the ministry’s early preparations for the upcoming Umrah season and its commitment to ensuring high-quality services for Umrah pilgrims.The ministry stated that the suspension includes 15 companies for low performance scores based on approved evaluation indicators, as well as six companies that committed regulatory violations requiring formal corrective action.The ministry said that its evaluation ecosystem is based on operational and supervisory indicators measuring service quality and compliance with regulations. These aim to enhance competition among service providers, improve performance standards, and achieve the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 by delivering a safe and high-quality experience for pilgrims and visitors to the Prophet’s Mosque.The ministry reaffirmed its strict enforcement of regulations, emphasizing zero tolerance for any shortcomings affecting service quality or the rights of Umrah pilgrims. It noted that continuous evaluation of Umrah companies remains a key tool for sector development and service improvement.