Inspection tours of hospitality facilities in Makkah and Madinah get intensified during Ramadan

The Saudi Minister of Tourism has directed intensified inspections of tourist hospitality facilities such as “hotels and serviced apartments” in Makkah and Madinah during the holy month of Ramadan, being observed in the Gulf state starting March 11.

It is part of the “Our Guests Are a Priority” campaign – aimed at guaranteeing commitment to the tourism system and its regulations and improving the quality of services provided to Umrah pilgrims, according to the Saudi Press Agency.

Minister Ahmed bin Aqeel Al-Khateeb earlier conducted inspections of tourist hospitality facilities in the holy cities, accompanied by ministry officials. He emphasised the objectives of the campaign during the inspection tour.

Inspections in Makkah and Madinah detect violations

The Ministry’s supervisory teams carried out at least 468 monitoring and inspection rounds in Makkah and detected more than 278 violations. They also conducted at least 214 rounds in Madinah, detecting over 125 violations.

Some of the most significant violations detected included hospitality facilities practicing activities without a licence and low level of service and maintenance, besides non-commitment to announcing the price list of units and services in Arabic and English.

The supervisory and inspection rounds support the key goal of better serving visitors and pilgrims from inside and outside the Kingdom, offering them the best quality services and helping them perform rituals easily and more comfortably.

Makkah Health Cluster announces its readiness

The Saudi Ministry of Tourism also highlighted that Umrah pilgrims and visitors can submit their comments about the services offered through its official channels on social media platforms or by contacting the Visitor Care Centre 930.

In addition, the Makkah Health Cluster has announced its readiness for the month of Ramadan, informing that it has completed operational plans for all hospitals and affiliated health centres to ensure integrated medical services at the highest possible level.

Eight hospitals and 43 health centres are prepared to implement the plans, being supervised by the Ministry of Health. Work is carried out in a smooth and streamlined manner between all entities affiliated with the Makkah Health Cluster to provide services between them.

Read More: UAE and Saudi Arabia commit to collaborate in enhancing Umrah services