Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) -- In recent years, cases have been identified when citizens face various problems when performing the Umrah pilgrimage.

In particular, some businessmen involved in tourism activities do not fulfill their promises made in advertisements about the Umrah pilgrimage, problems arise with hotels upon arrival at their destination, and in many cases, pilgrims’ flights are delayed.

The Law “On Amendments and Additions to Certain Legislative Acts of the Republic of Uzbekistan,” discussed by senators at the fifty-second plenary meeting of the Senate, is important because it is aimed at eliminating such problems.

This Law was developed with the aim of creating the necessary conditions for pilgrims to perform the Umrah pilgrimage in a dignified and safe manner, protecting their rights and legitimate interests abroad, as well as ensuring their use of guaranteed services.

The law introduces a number of amendments and additions to the laws of the Republic of Uzbekistan “On licensing, permitting and notification procedures” and “On state duty”.

Thus, a new type of licensed activity is being introduced for organizing and conducting Umrah events. This license is issued by the Committee for Religious Affairs and for its receipt a state fee is established in the amount of 10 sizes of the basic estimated value.

According to this Law, the number of activities requiring permission and relevant documents additionally includes obtaining permission to operate as an operator of an electronic public procurement system.

In addition, additions are being made to the list of fines imposed on legal entities for violations in the field of licensing, permitting and notification procedures.

Now, carrying out Umrah activities without a license or obtaining licenses using forged documents will entail a fine of 200 sizes of the basic estimated value.

According to the senators, the adoption of the Law serves to ensure the safe and secure performance of the most sacred pilgrimage of our compatriots, to guarantee their rights and freedoms, to prevent various types of fraud, and most importantly, to ensure that in this process every citizen is under the protection of the state.

The law was approved by senators.