Saudi Arabia will not issue Umrah visas to those under 40 years of age who come alone on the pilgrimage.

This decision was taken since many who visit the kingdom alone after being granted visas for Umrah or mini Haj overstay in Saudi Arabia, said Adil Balkhair, assistant deputy minister for Umrah affairs.

Balkhair said the decision was taken after a continuous study of figures and as a result of Umrah regulations over the past years. 'It became clear to us that some are using the Umrah as an excus to overstay and become illegal workers,' the minister was quoted as saying by the newspaper Arab News.

Those under 40 years can come with their families or with organised legal groups.