New Umrah visas open opportunities for Afghan travelers, businesses

KABUL: For years, Afghans have faced barriers to travel — closed embassies, limited visas, and a shrinking list of countries that they could visit. Saudi Arabia’s recent change to Umrah entry rules has opened a door that many thought was shut. For pilgrims, it is a spiritual journey made simpler. For families brought apart by wars and the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan in 2021, it is a chance for reunions. For young couples, it is a new way to begin a marriage. And for tour operators, a long-aw