(a) holding a permanent post and having been confirmed in service; or

(b) holding a temporary post and having served for not less than six continuous years,

may be granted pilgrimage leave to make the pilgrimage to Mecca on full-pay for a period not exceeding forty days. Where an extension beyond forty days is required, the officer may use any vacation leave for which he is entitled. If the officer has no vacation leave to his credit, he may be granted leave without pay.

(2) Pilgrimage leave may be approved for one occasion only during the whole period of service of an officer.