Zamzam.com launches B2C visa services for Umrah pilgrims

Curated and carefully designed packages that meet the needs of pilgrims from all over the world, can now be easily booked on Zamzam.com.
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Updated 13 April 2022
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Zamzam.com launches B2C visa services for Umrah pilgrims

Planning an Umrah trip could quickly turn into a daunting task given the many aspects that are involved. From booking flights and accommodations to ground transfers, the entire process could prove to be what more than one person can handle.

With this in mind, Zamzam.com, an online platform for Umrah travels, is offering B2C visa services directly to consumers, becoming the first online travel agency platform for religious travels.

Established through a joint venture with TBO.com, the world’s leading travel distribution technology platform, Zamzam.com is headquartered in Saudi Arabia and certified by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.

Curated and carefully designed packages that meet the needs of pilgrims coming from all over the Kingdom, the wider GCC regions, and the world, can now be easily booked, taking into consideration the cultural preferences and other aspects to help turn the pilgrimage into a spiritual journey. The packages include an extensive inventory of leading properties and transfer services among others, available in a few clicks through the B2C portal.

Omar Seraj Akbar, CEO of Zamzam.com, said: “In line with our core values, we are proud to announce the launch of the B2C services on Zamzam.com. We thank the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah for providing Zamzam.com with this service. Umrah travelers booking directly on the platform are now able to enjoy a seamless booking experience, with or without registration on the portal, and benefit from a variety of handpicked services that provide unique value-added propositions for a divine customer experience.”

The OTA platform’s services include VIP meet and assist services at the Jeddah airport, guided Umrah tours, special programs to enrich the visitors’ experience, and premium services for executives, royal delegations and guests.

To ensure the success of its B2C operations, Zamzam.com has a dedicated call center facility with experienced multilingual staff, and an automated WhatsApp chatbot and email support, serving customers round the clock throughout the year.

In addition, the platform has partnered with several financial institutions such as VFS, Merit, Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank and Buy Now Pay Later to offer exclusive loyalty programs for customers with relevant credit cards.

With the aim to revolutionize the travel experience for religious travelers coming to Saudi Arabia from more than 110 countries across the globe, Zamzam.com is committed to creating meaningful pilgrimage experiences for individuals, partner agents, industry professionals, and destination managers alike.


Dubai Shopping Festival’s sporting events turn city into hub for outdoor action

Updated 31 December 2025
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Dubai Shopping Festival’s sporting events turn city into hub for outdoor action

The Dubai Shopping Festival is raising the bar this winter with a high-impact sporting calendar that runs throughout December and January, transforming the city into a hub for elite competition, community fitness and outdoor action. 

From professional basketball to baseball games, polo tournaments, half marathons, and horse racing, the festival brings together athletes, families and spectators for a dynamic winter season of sport. The diverse lineup of events strengthens DSF’s role in supporting Dubai’s active lifestyle, showcasing world-class sporting venues and encouraging community engagement during the city’s peak outdoor season. 

Key sporting events taking place during DSF: 

Dubai Racing Carnival 

  • Race days: Jan. 2, Jan. 9 and ongoing dates until March 13. 
  • Location: Meydan Racecourse 

The flagship winter racing season features international horses and top jockeys. 

More information: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/dubai-racing-carnivaland https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/dubai-racing-carnival-festive-friday 

Silver Cup 

  • Date: Jan. 10-Jan.24 
  • Location: Al-Habtoor Polo Resort and Club 

Silver Cup, part of Dubai’s prestigious polo calendar, sees six of the world’s best teams go head-to-head in a 20-goal handicap. 

  • More information: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/silver-cup 

Spinneys Dubai 92 Cycle Challenge — Build-Up Ride 4 

  • Date: Jan. 4 
  • Location: Al-Qudra Cycle Track 

The last of the Spinneys Dubai 92 Cycle Challenge Build-Up Rides is designed to help cyclists build their stamina ahead of the ultimate challenge. 

  • More information: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/spinneys-dubai-92-cycle-challenge-build-up-ride-4 

Hood to Coast Dubai 2026 

  • Date: Jan. 10 
  • Location: Al-Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve 

Hood to Coast Dubai challenges teams to conquer a series of relay segments through expansive desert trails, with each runner taking on their leg before passing the baton. 

  • More information: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/hood-to-coast 

Skechers Performance Run — Race 4 (16k/10k/5k/3k) 

  • Date: Jan. 10 
  • Location: Meydan 

Enjoy a fun day out for the whole family at this popular community race offering various distances, where participants can run along the traffic-free roads of Meydan. 

  • More information: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/skechers-performance-run 

Marina Home Dubai Creek Striders Half Marathon 2026 

  • Date: Jan. 11 
  • Location: Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club 

One of the largest races of its kind in the UAE and the Middle East, this half marathon will mark its 23rd edition in 2026. 

  • More information: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/dubai-creek-striders-half-marathon 

A citywide sporting season 

With events spanning elite international fixtures, community runs, polo tournaments, multi-distance races, trail challenges and recurring racing nights at Meydan, DSF strengthens Dubai’s winter season for sport, well-being and outdoor experiences.