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Ammon News - Saudi Arabia has issued about 4,000 pilgrimage visas for Jordanians this year, Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Tawfiq Rabiah, announced, on Thursday.

In a press conference at the Saudi embassy in Amman, Rabiah said coordination with Jordanian Ministry of Awqaf, Islamic Affairs and Holy Places, is maintained on preparations for 2022 Hajj season, noting accommodation places to receive Jordanian pilgrims are "ready."

On the 2022 season, he said a total of 1 million Muslims are expected to perform pilgrimage, adding that this lowered figure seeks to ensure their safety in light of Covid-19 pandemic and provide appropriate services.

The Hajj smart card, which will be implemented this year, will contribute to facilitating the pilgrims' movement and expedited access to the pilgrimage sites, he announced.

On a related development, the minister also noted a newly launched e-service allows those wishing to perform Umrah (Lesser Pilgrimage) to apply online to obtain a visa within 24 hours.