Umrah Travel Operators Warned to Prepare for Possible Flight Disruptions

Umrah travel operators have been urged to take immediate precautions because of possible flight disruptions to and from Saudi Arabia.

The Sri Lanka Hajj Mission issued the warning on October 16, 2026. The mission operates under the Department of Muslim Religious and Cultural Affairs.

It referred to a security advisory issued by the Consulate General of Sri Lanka in Jeddah on October 13.

Operators Must Inform Umrah Pilgrims

Travel operators must explain the current situation to people planning Umrah trips.

They must tell pilgrims that flights could face disruptions. Operators should also make backup plans before arranging travel.

Authorities issued the warning after reports showed that some pilgrims are facing serious problems in Saudi Arabia. These pilgrims had travelled without taking enough precautions, according to the notice.

For this reason, operators need to check the latest advice before confirming travel plans.

Operators Must Consider Travel Risks

The Department warned operators to consider official travel advice and current conditions before arranging pilgrim journeys. Operators who ignore these factors will be responsible for any risks or losses that may follow.

They may also face legal consequences under the relevant laws and rules.

Several official bodies have said they will not accept responsibility for problems caused by a failure to follow the instructions.

These bodies include the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah of Saudi Arabia, the Sri Lanka Hajj Mission, the Hajj and Umrah Committee and the Department of Muslim Religious and Cultural Affairs.

Umrah travel operators have therefore been urged to follow the notice and take proper steps to protect pilgrims.

What Operators Should Do Before Travel?

Before confirming an Umrah journey, operators should check the latest security advice. They should explain possible flight changes to pilgrims.

Operators should also prepare suitable backup arrangements in case flights are disrupted.

These steps are now part of the precautions requested by the authorities.