Tourism Ministry blocks seven unlicensed travel platforms

The Ministry of Tourism said it has blocked seven online platforms, working with the relevant authorities, because they were offering travel and tourism services without meeting the requirements of the Tourism Law. The services included domestic Umrah packages and tourist trips.

The ministry said the step is meant to cut down on irregular activity in the sector, protect tourists and pilgrims from fraud, and keep out services that fall short of quality standards. It did not name the platforms or announce fines.

The ministry's spokesperson said monitoring of travel websites continues and that legal action is taken against violators. Anyone booking a trip or an Umrah package is urged to deal only with licensed platforms and licensed travel and tourism offices.