Hajj scam alert: How to verify licensed service providers
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As millions of Muslims prepare for their Hajj pilgrimage, the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah (MOHU) has issued a critical warning against fraudulent Hajj campaigns, urging pilgrims to use only licensed service providers for a smooth and safe experience.
To help ensure authenticity, the ministry recommends pilgrims use their official website, www.haj.gov.sa, to verify licensed Hajj operators. This applies to domestic pilgrims, including Saudi citizens and residents, who can access a simple online tool to check accredited companies.
For UAE nationals, the General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments (Awqaf) maintains a list of approved operators on awqaf.gov.ae.
International pilgrims have two main options to ensure their chosen provider is licensed. Those from eligible countries can use the Nusuk platform at hajj.nusuk.sa, an online service that facilitates Hajj bookings with accredited providers. A full list of eligible countries is available on the platform's website.
For those unable to use Nusuk, international pilgrims should consult their local Hajj Committee or Commission to obtain a list of licensed Hajj Group Organisers (HGOs) for 2024.
The Ministry of Hajj has emphasized that all pilgrims must secure a valid Hajj visa through official channels, either via Hajj Affairs Offices in over 80 countries or through the Nusuk platform.
The ministry also encourages pilgrims to contact the official call centre for assistance, available 24/7 in multiple languages. The contact details are as follows:
Unified number (Saudi Arabia): 1966
International number: +966 9200 02814
Email: care@haj.gov.sa
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