Prime Minister Revokes Licenses of 16 Hajj Travel Agencies

During a meeting in the newly formed crisis cell to oversee and manage the aftermath of the recent deaths of at least 600 Egyptian pilgrims during Hajj, Prime Minister Dr. Mostafa Madbouly revoked the licences for 16 tourism companies, and ordered compensation for affected families. The officials of the 16 companies were also referred to the Public Prosecutor's Office.

“A preliminary number of 16 tourism agencies have engaged in fraud and unauthorised pilgrimages, without providing any of the imperative services to the pilgrims as well,” The cabinet wrote in a recently released statement. “From here, the Prime Minister has tasked the authorities to quickly revoke the licences of these companies, refer the responsible parties to the public prosecution and fine these companies in favour of the families of the pilgrims who died as a result of their actions."

The crisis cell’s primary objectives, as outlined by Madbouly, are to closely monitor the conditions of Egyptian pilgrims, extend support to affected families, and collaborate with Saudi authorities to facilitate all required procedures and assistance. Recommendations from the crisis management committee included enhanced coordination with Saudi authorities, DNA testing for unidentified deceased pilgrims, and regulatory amendments to tighten controls on pilgrimage programs.

The crisis cell’s technical secretariat highlighted findings attributing the high number of deaths among unregistered pilgrims to tourism companies organising unauthorised trips without adequate provisions or accommodations. Minister of Foreign Affairs Sameh Shoukry highlighted ongoing efforts by Egyptian consulates in Jeddah and multiple teams dispatched to Makkah and holy sites to coordinate with Saudi authorities, and ensure comprehensive care for Egyptian citizens.