Rice Exporters Association of Pakistan (REAP) on Monday appealed Khadim-e-Harmain Sharifain King Salman Bin Abdul Aziz to review the decision of Council of Saudi Arabian Minister regarding proposed Umrah visa fee of 2,000 Saudi Riyal to be implemented on Umrah pilgrims from 1,438 Saudi Riyal.
Abdul Rahim Janoo Chief Patron, Mahmood Moulvi Chairman, all office bearers and members of Managing Committee of REAP have said that Pakistan is the second largest Muslim country and every year approximately one million Pakistani Umrah pilgrims proceed to Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to perform Umrah and Hajj. Further, Pakistan is among the under-developing countries, whereas a major share of population belongs to mediocre class and under-privileged class proceed to Saudi Arabia to perform Umrah as religious obligation an honour bestowed upon them by Almighty Allah, they added.
They have also appreciated the arrangements and facilities extended to pilgrims of Hajj and Umrah under the directives of HRH King of Saudi Arabia. They said REAP and all of its members were abide by the policies and regulations of Saudi Arabia, however, they had shown concern over this proposed Umrah visa fee, as majority of Pakistani will not be able to perform Umrah after implementation of new visa fee. REAP has also appealed Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to play his role and talk with Saudi Arabian authorities to review the proposed Umrah charges, as Pakistan and Saudi Arabia are enjoying very brotherly and friendly relationship.