The deadline for issuing permits to companies providing accommodation to Haj pilgrims has been extended by three moths until the end of the month of Dhul Qida, corresponding with the middle of November. The Central Haj Committee in Makkah extended the deadline, which had been set at the end of the current month of Sha'aban, following discussions between the Housing Committee and owners of hotels and furnished apartments where it was recognized that new procedures for granting permits had resulted in considerable delays. Haj Committee Chairman Zuhair Hadad said it was vital that standards were enforced through a permit system in order to ensure the safety of pilgrims.
