The Saudi Arabian government has accorded "royal protocol status" to former deputy premier Anwar Ibrahim for the duration of his visit to Mecca to perform the umrah.

Anwar's aide Azmin Ali told malaysiakini today that the Saudi Royal family would be hosting the two-week stay from today, including providing a private jet.

Anwar's 12-member entourage includes his wife Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail and three of their children. They will be leaving Munich, Germany, where Anwar had undergone surgery to correct a slipped disc early last month.

Royal palace

"When we arrive in Jeddah, Anwar is expected to be received by Islamic Development Bank president Dr Mohamad Ali," said Azmin.

"In Jeddah, we also expect to meet Saudi's finance minister Dr Ibrahim Al- Asaf who had made the arrangements."

The entourage will then be taken to the royal palace. After the maghrib prayers, they will be escorted to the royal palace in Mecca to perform the umrah (pilgrimage).

Anwar is scheduled to return to Malaysia at the end of this month.

Last Saturday, Negri Sembilan ruler Yam Tuan Tuanku Jaafar and his consort Tuanku Najihah visited Anwar.

"Anwar expressed his gratitude that the Royal couple had paid him a visit," said Azmin.