DUBAI // Pilgrims who preach or hand out leaflets during Haj or Umrah without authorisation face a Dh100,000 fine, the Islamic affairs authority says.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, has issued a decree regulating pilgrims’ behaviour.
Anyone who wishes to preach or hand out brochures during the trip first needs approval from the General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments.
The decree lays down the requirements of UAE travel agencies operating Haj and Umrah trips, including separation of the sexes unless they are married.
It says travel-agency staff must stay with their clients in Saudi Arabia for the whole pilgrimage.
Agencies cannot transfer pilgrims to other agencies without the authority’s consent.
The decree also details the rules on transport, housing and other matters related to Haj rites.
Dr Mohammed Al Kaabi, director general of the authority, welcomed the decree, saying it guaranteed the rights of pilgrims and travel agents.
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