Dubai: The number of Singaporean Umrah performers has increased by 45 per cent compared to pre-pandemic levels, according to Dr. Tawfiq Al Rabiah, Minister of Hajj and Umrah, during his official visit to Singapore.

President of Singapore Halimah Yacob received on Wednesday Minister of Hajj and Umrah who is on an official visit along with a delegation of representatives from government and private institutions concerned with serving Hajj and Umrah performers.

The visit included several meetings to discuss ways to enhance cooperation between the two sides in various areas, especially significant following the automation of all services, elimination of age restrictions and requirement of a male guardian, electronic visa issuance through the Nusuk platform, selection of packages and services, and completion of payments via smart devices.

Al Rabiah concluded his visit by holding several meetings with officials to further enhance cooperation and strengthen the quality of services provided to Singaporean Umrah performers. Talks also focused on improving the effectiveness of joint committees to ensure easy trips for pilgrims and Umrah performers. The visit reaffirmed the deep bilateral relations between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Singapore.