MUIS advises S’poreans planning Umrah to consider postponing trips amid heightened security risks in Saudi Arabia

Singaporeans planning to perform Umrah are advised to consider postponing their trips to Saudi Arabia while security risks remain heightened.

The Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS) issued the advisory on Oct. 14, following an updated travel advisory from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) a day earlier.

MUIS said it was engaging Umrah travel agents and encouraging them to assist affected pilgrims with postponing or rescheduling their trips where possible.

Travel agents urged to offer flexible arrangements

MUIS said it was mindful that pilgrims with existing bookings could be affected financially.

In the statement, MUIS said:

“We recognise that pilgrims may face financial implications through no fault of their own, and urge operators to handle such cases with care, fairness and understanding.”

MUIS said an Umrah journey can be deeply personal for pilgrims and their families, particularly for those who have spent time saving and preparing for it.

However, it urged the community to exercise caution as the security situation continues to develop.

Travel to Saudi Arabia

MFA advised Singaporeans on Oct. 13 to defer all travel to Saudi Arabia due to heightened security risks.

Since July 2026, the kingdom has experienced an increase in missile and drone attacks targeting civilian aviation and energy infrastructure, MFA said.

In past weeks, airports in Riyadh, Abha, Dammam, Khamis Mushait, Najran and Jizan have been hit.

Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport (KKIA) has also been attacked repeatedly, resulting in airport operations being suspended and flights being diverted.

MFA also noted that airspace closures have become more common.

Singaporeans already in Saudi Arabia should stay away from KKIA and other areas considered high-risk, and avoid non-essential travel within the country.

Travellers with flights to or through Saudi Arabia are also advised to check with their airlines for the latest updates and reconfirm their flights on the day of departure.

Singaporeans already there should stay in touch with travel operators

MUIS also advised Singaporeans currently in Saudi Arabia to follow instructions from local authorities and MFA and remain in contact with their travel operators and airlines.

“We understand that these developments may be worrying, especially for those travelling with elderly family members or children,” MUIS said.

MUIS said it would continue monitoring developments and coordinating with relevant government agencies.

“We pray for their safety and well-being, and that they will be able to fulfil their intention to perform Umrah safely and with peace of mind when circumstances permit,” it added.