South Africa’s Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille, recently hosted Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Hajj and Umrah, H.E. Dr Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah, during his official visit to South Africa.
The discussions focused on strengthening cooperation between the two countries and improving the experience of South African pilgrims and Umrah visitors travelling to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Key issues discussed included making the journey easier for pilgrims, expanding digital services, improving coordination with tour operators and finding practical solutions to challenges experienced by South African Hajj and Umrah travellers.
The two countries also agreed to establish a joint working group to follow up on recommendations and explore ways to strengthen cooperation. Airlines in both countries will also be encouraged to consider increasing flight frequencies between South Africa and Saudi Arabia.
Minister Al-Rabiah revealed that approximately 56,000 South Africans travelled to Saudi Arabia for Umrah last year, representing an increase of around 10% from the previous year.
The visit also explored opportunities to grow tourism between the two countries, including promoting South Africa's Islamic heritage and halaal tourism offerings.
The engagement is expected to further strengthen the longstanding relationship between South Africa and Saudi Arabia, while working towards making the Hajj and Umrah journey more accessible, seamless and enriching for South African Muslims.
