Saudi Arabia gives Umrah pilgrims who exceed visa opportunity to apply for ‘exemption’

Pilgrims who exceeded their Umrah visa can submit an exemption request to the ministry’s website. (Reuters)
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Updated 24 March 2020
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Saudi Arabia gives Umrah pilgrims who exceed visa opportunity to apply for ‘exemption’

  • Pilgrims who exceeded their Umrah visa can submit an exemption request to the ministry’s website

RIYADH: The General Directorate of Passports in Saudi Arabia has said Umrah pilgrims who have exceeded their visa period can apply for an ‘exemption’ to avoid penalties. 

A statement released by the directorate in coordination with the Ministry of Hajj said, pilgrims who exceeded their Umrah visa can submit an exemption request to the ministry’s website.

The request includes an exemption from the legal implications and financial penalties involved in delaying their departure. The form should be submitted no later than Saturday, March 28. 

The statement added that the relevant authorities will arrange return flights for the pilgrims.

The authorities will inform the pilgrims of the details and timings of their flights via text to their registered phone numbers.


Students explore AI, robotics with MIT expert

Updated 15 December 2025
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Students explore AI, robotics with MIT expert

RIYADH: Misk Schools in Riyadh has hosted specialized workshops in robotics and artificial intelligence, introducing students to research led by prominent Saudi experts.

Saudi researcher Sharifa Al-Ghowinem, from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, visited as part of the initiative, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Monday.

She worked over three sessions with students from the early years and upper elementary grades on activities focused on basic shapes and block-based programming.

Older students undertook more advanced tasks involving robotic drawing.

The interactive workshops gave students direct guidance and insight into ongoing research at MIT.

Dr. Steffen Sommer, director general of Misk Schools, said Al-Ghowinem’s work extended beyond technical achievement.

He said: “Her research reflects a Saudi vision that is shaping global scientific inquiry at MIT.

“Her visit gave Misk Schools’ students a unique opportunity to engage directly with a scientist advancing human-robot interaction in both Arabic and English.”