Ministry of Hajj and Umrah Alerts to Risks of Bogus Hajj Firms, Highlights Visa Requirements

Monday, June 3, 2024

A senior official from the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has issued a warning to individuals planning to undertake the Hajj pilgrimage in the year 1445 Hijri / 2024 AD, advising them to be wary of fraudulent Hajj promotions found on social media platforms. It’s essential for pilgrims to secure a legitimate Hajj visa through Saudi Arabian authorities, collaborating with designated Hajj offices in their home countries or using the “Nusuk Hajj” platform if no such offices exist.

The Ministry is actively tracking misleading advertisements and campaigns on various social media channels that often offer unrealistically low-priced Hajj packages. Prospective pilgrims are urged to exercise caution and avoid these deceptive offers.

Furthermore, the Ministry clarifies that visas for other purposes like Umrah, tourism, work, family visits, or transit do not permit holders to perform Hajj. Compliance with rules established by recognized authorities is crucial, and pilgrims should steer clear of unauthorized entities that claim to provide Hajj packages.

An additional advisory has been released by the Ministry for the inhabitants of Mecca, cautioning them against sheltering or transporting individuals who defy the established Hajj guidelines, unless they possess the proper permits or visas. Severe consequences await those who are caught violating these directives.

Offenders, including local citizens, residents, and foreign visitors, face a penalty of 10,000 Saudi riyals. For residents found guilty, penalties include deportation and a subsequent ban from returning to Saudi Arabia for certain durations. Those aiding violators through transportation face even steeper fines of up to 50,000 Saudi riyals and could be imprisoned for up to six months. Additionally, vehicles used in such violations can be seized, and foreign violators will be expelled and barred from re-entry for prescribed periods.