State Bank of Pakistan

All Authorized Dealers
In Foreign Exchange,

Dear Sirs,

RESTRICTION ON TRAVEL DURING
HAJJ SEASON

1. Attention is invited to paragraph 6 Chapter XVII of Foreign Exchange Manual (6^th Edition, 1987) in terms of which Airlines/Shipping Companies/Travel Agents are prohibited from issuing tickets providing for travel to Saudi Arabia and adjoining countries viz. Egypt, Sudan, Djibouti, Somalia, Ethiopia, Kenya, Syria, Turkey and Greece during the period from 10^th of Shawwal to 10^th of Zilhaj except for the exempted categories mentioned therein.

2. In pursuance of provisions of the Hajj Policy 1993, it has been decided that during the ensuing Hajj Season from 10^th Shawwal to 10^th Zilhaj 1412 (A.H.) Airlines/Shipping Companies/Travel Agents shall not issue tickets and/or provide seats and Authorized Dealers shall not release private travel exchange quota to any person except travelers falling in exempted categories as mentioned in the enclosed list for travel to Saudi Arabia and adjoining countries.

3. Airlines/Travel Agents and Authorized Dealers are advised to note the above instructions carefully for strict compliance.

LIST OF EXEMPTED CATEGORIES

Wives wishing to join their husbands working in Saudi Arabia.
Children wishing to join such parents as are working in Saudi Arabia.
Parents wishing to join their sons/daughters working in Saudi Arabia.
Those returning to duty in Saudi Arabia.
Those going to Saudi Arabia against business visas secured after due certification by recognized Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry.
Those going to Saudi Arabia in response to invitation received from the Government of Saudi Arabia.
Students going to join educational institutions to which they have been admitted plus their guardian duly authorized by Government of Saudi Arabia.
Officials on duty-enroute to Saudi Arabia.
Those going to Saudi Arabia against work permit or employment visa.
Such Pakistanis as are working abroad (outside Saudi Arabia) and happen to be on leave in Pakistan during Hajj season and wish to perform Hajj enroute while going back to resume their duties.