MUIS' response to media queries on resumption of Umrah pilgrimage

1. In response to media queries on the Association of Muslim Travel Agents Singapore's (AMTAS) media release on Umrah, the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS) commends AMTAS' responsible approach to discouraging Umrah for the time being in view of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. 

2. MUIS shares AMTAS' commitment to protect prospective pilgrims and the wider community from the risk of infection. AMTAS’ approach is also in line with the prevailing national guidelines on overseas travel.

3. The ongoing pandemic has introduced many risks and uncertainties for overseas travel, even if permitted, such as mandatory testing and quarantine requirements (both upon entry to the destination and upon return to Singapore). There would also be significant costs incurred should travellers get infected and are hospitalised, and there could also be the possibility of flight cancellations and changes. As such, these factors make Umrah travel not advisable at the moment.

4. As such, MUIS will continue to work closely with AMTAS and the relevant government authorities to monitor the situation and assess when it would be safe and appropriate for Umrah travel to resume, in line with the overall national guidelines for overseas travel. Our utmost priority remains the safety and well-being of our pilgrims and our wider community.

Majlis Ugama Islam Singapura