I am writing with regard to the post "Require permits for Umrah in Ramadan" (Aug. 28). Some people make suggestions on religious issues without being aware of the religious implications of their advice. Soon some people will be advising husbands to take permission before talking to their wives. The concerned authorities have not complained about congestion in the Grand Mosque. Allah has blessed them with wisdom in managing the situation. There is no need to require permits for domestic pilgrims to perform Umrah in Ramadan.

Abdullah, Online response

II.

I totally agree that permits should be required to perform Umrah in Ramadan. Last year, we continuously received text messages asking us not to go for Umrah during Ramadan due to the construction and extension of the Grand Mosque. This was to make it easier for Umrah pilgrims who were coming from abroad.  I have just one concern: What if the Saudi residents get permission to perform Umrah during Ramadan, and then they stay in Makkah for a week or so? This will only make the congestion worse.

Farhana Shaheen, Online response

III.

The number of days allowed for performing Umrah are getting shorter year after year. It used to be that a two-month visa was issued to pilgrims, but now they are proposing 15 days. After a few years, they may reduce it further.  The hotel and tourism industry are the real concern of Saudis, and pilgrims from abroad do not want their pilgrimage limited to 15 days after spending a lot of money to get to the Kingdom.

Lil, Online response