The Saudi General Civil Aviation authority has issued new guidelines, restricting Hajj and Umrah pilgrims from carrying Aab-e-Zamzam water bottles inside checked-in baggage back to their countries.

Aab-e-Zamzam is the water from the well of Zamzam. The water has great religious significance for Muslims and people take supplies back home in as great an amount as they can after performing Hajj or Umrah.

All airlines operating in Saudi Arabia have been told to ensure these new guidelines are followed ahead of Zil Hajj, the holy month for the Islamic pilgrimage of Hajj.

Saudi Arabia will take legal action against violators and airlines through Jeddah or any other airport in the Kingdom, the notification said.