Saudi Offers Malaysians A Complete Journey Blending Worship And Tourism

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 9 (Bernama) – The Saudi Tourism Authority (STA) has introduced a series of transformative measures to streamline travel for Malaysians, enhancing their journey to the holy cities of Mecca and Medina.

These new initiatives simplify the process for Malaysians to perform umrah and visit the Prophet's Mosque, while also offering access to Saudi Arabia’s diverse religious, cultural and heritage sites, allowing them to create lasting memories.

In a statement, the STA said Malaysians can now easily obtain an electronic visit visa, which allows multiple entries and a stay of up to 90 days per year, through the “Visit Saudi” platform or upon arrival at Saudi entry points.

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It added that visitors can perform umrah, pray at the Prophet's Mosque, and even visit the revered Al-Rawdah Al-Sharifah, provided that they book in advance through the unified government platform "Nusuk".

“Malaysia holds a significant place in the hearts of Saudi Arabia’s leadership and people.

“Due to shared religious beliefs and the strong fraternal ties that have formed the foundation of the relations between the two nations — dating back to 1961 when Saudi Arabia opened an embassy in Kuala Lumpur and Malaysia opened one in Jeddah — unprecedented facilitation measures have been offered to Malaysians wishing to perform umrah, or visit the kingdom,” the statement read.

To enhance services for Malaysian travellers, the STA hosted an event in Kuala Lumpur targeting the business sector, including travel and umrah agencies. The event aimed to elevate the services provided to Malaysians and assist them in planning their vacations in Saudi Arabia.

Meanwhile, STA’s commitment to easing the journey for Malaysian pilgrims has led to the inclusion of Malay (Bahasa Malaysia) in the unified “Nusuk” call centre, which operates 24/7 to assist pilgrims and visitors.

Malaysian women can now travel to Saudi Arabia without the need for a male guardian, making the kingdom an attractive destination for international travellers, especially women, as recognised by global travel safety websites, the statement read.

In enriching the umrah experience, the STA said Malaysians planning to visit Saudi Arabia now have the opportunity to explore the country’s rich heritage, religious and cultural sites, making the pilgrimage an enriching and memorable adventure.

Citing an example, the STA said Malaysians in Mecca can visit Jabal Al-Nour and the Cave of Hira, where the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) received the first revelation, as well as the Kaaba Kiswa Exhibition, which showcases the intricate process of weaving the Kiswa (the cloth that covers the Kaaba), highlighting its history and the Quranic inscriptions adorning it.

“All of these sites offer a spiritually enriching and informative experience,” it said.

-- BERNAMA