Ghana advises Umrah pilgrims to delay travel over Middle East tensions
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has advised prospective Umrah pilgrims in Ghana to suspend their travel plans due to a worsening security situation in parts of the Middle East.
In a statement dated March 2, 2026, the Ministry said travel arrangements for Umrah could be disrupted and urged those yet to depart to wait until conditions improve.
“The Ministry therefore advises all prospective Umrah pilgrims who are currently in Ghana and yet to commence their journey to temporarily hold on with travel plans until the situation stabilises,” the statement said.
The Ministry did not specify the exact nature or location of the threat but described the situation as fast changing and affecting parts of the Middle East.
For Ghanaians already in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Ministry advised them to remain calm and follow directives from local authorities. It also urged them to stay in touch with their travel agents, the Ghanaian Embassy in Riyadh and the Consulate General in Jeddah.
The Ministry said the safety and well-being of Ghanaian nationals remain a priority.
Emergency contact numbers were provided for those who may need consular assistance. Persons in Ghana can contact the Ministry on +233 240 913 284 or +233 240 793 072. Those in Saudi Arabia can reach the Embassy in Riyadh on +966 59 776 2966 or +966 56 818 1974, or via email at
The advisory comes during the peak Umrah period, when many Ghanaian Muslims travel to Mecca for the lesser pilgrimage.
