Islamic lifestyle wrap: Saudi welcomes back Iranian pilgrims for Umrah
Here's a roundup of key developments across the Islamic lifestyle ecosystem during the first two weeks of December
Editor's note: In what is widely viewed as further detente in relations, Saudi Arabia is set to welcome Iranian pilgrims after a nearly decade long hiatus. The kingdom is also oiling wheels for visitors in general, announcing greater travel access to Indian travellers.
Company News
United Kingdom
Birmingham scientist curates PPE hijab design
A PPE hijab, designed by Aminah Shafiq, a Severn Trent water quality scientist from Birmingham, is now available globally.
Shafiq, who wears a headscarf, identified the need for more inclusive gear for water treatment site visits.
The 26-year-old created the design in 2021 with the belief that "your choice of clothing shouldn't be a barrier to the career you want." The PPE hijab aims to provide a solution for individuals who require head coverings while working in various professions. (BBC)
Trade Developments
Saudi Arabia / Iran
Saudi Arabia welcomes back Iranian pilgrims for Umrah after 8-year hiatus
Iranian pilgrims are set to undertake the lesser pilgrimage, Umrah, by traveling to the holy city of Makkah in Saudi Arabia next week.
This marks the first time in eight years that Iranian pilgrims will partake in Umrah. Flights carrying pilgrims will depart from ten airports across Iran, with the initial batch of flights scheduled for takeoff on December 19, as reported by Iran's semi-official Fars news agency. (Middle East Monitor)
Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia announces greater travel access for Indian pilgrims
Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Tawfiq bin Fawzan, announced that Indian tourists traveling to the West or the Middle East can now apply for a four-day stopover visa in Saudi Arabia.
This visa will enable visitors to explore any Saudi city or undertake the Umrah pilgrimage. The initiative aligns with the Saudi Vision 2030, aiming to streamline Umrah visits and enhance the overall experience for pilgrims. (Middle East Monitor)
Investment
Singapore
Bitsmedia raises $20m Series A led by CMIA Capital Partners, Gobi Partners and Bintang Capital Partners
Bitsmedia, the creator of the Muslim lifestyle app Muslim Pro, has successfully secured $20 million in its Series A funding round.
The funding round saw participation from Asia-focused venture capital firm Gobi Partners, along with continued support from existing investors CMIA Capital Partners and Bintang Capital Partners. (Digital News Asia)
Regulatory
Saudi Arabia
Saudi: Hajj Ministry cancels licenses of several Umrah companies
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has announced the cancellation of several licenses for Umrah companies due to their negligence in providing services.
The Ministry highlighted the failure of these companies to meet their obligations towards pilgrims, and as a result, legal measures will be taken against them. (Zawya)
