As the Hajj season approaches, millions of Muslims worldwide are gearing up for the spiritual journey of a lifetime. However, amid the excitement, the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah (MOHU) has sounded the alarm on a growing threat: fraudulent Hajj campaigns designed to exploit eager pilgrims. With reports of fake operators and scam services on the rise, the ministry is urging all pilgrims to verify licensed service providers to ensure a secure and seamless experience.
For pilgrims within Saudi Arabia—both citizens and residents—the process is straightforward. The ministry’s official website, www.haj.gov.sa, offers an easy-to-use online tool to check accredited Hajj operators. By entering a company’s details, domestic pilgrims can confirm its legitimacy in seconds, avoiding the pitfalls of unverified providers promising cheap packages or expedited services.
UAE nationals, meanwhile, have their own dedicated resource. The General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments (Awqaf) maintains an up-to-date list of approved Hajj operators on its website, awqaf.gov.ae. This ensures that Emirati pilgrims can confidently book their journey with trusted providers, free from the risk of scams that could derail their plans.
For international pilgrims, the verification process varies depending on their country of origin. Those from eligible nations can turn to the Nusuk platform (hajj.nusuk.sa), a government-backed online service that connects users with accredited Hajj operators. The platform, which streamlines bookings and visa applications, also provides a comprehensive list of countries it serves, making it a one-stop solution for millions. However, pilgrims from countries not covered by Nusuk should reach out to their local Hajj Committee or Commission to obtain a verified list of licensed Hajj Group Organisers (HGOs) for 2024.
The ministry has been unequivocal about the importance of securing a valid Hajj visa through official channels. Pilgrims can obtain these visas either through Hajj Affairs Offices, which operate in over 80 countries, or directly via the Nusuk platform. “Using unlicensed operators not only jeopardizes your pilgrimage but also puts your safety and finances at risk,” a ministry spokesperson warned. Fake visas and sham packages have left countless pilgrims stranded or deported in past years, a fate the ministry is determined to prevent.
To further assist pilgrims, the Ministry of Hajj has established a 24/7 call center, staffed by multilingual representatives ready to answer questions and provide guidance. Saudi-based pilgrims can dial the unified number 1966, while international callers can reach out at +966 9200 02814. For those preferring written communication, the email address is monitored around the clock.
As the Hajj draws nearer, the message is clear: diligence is key. Whether you’re a first-time pilgrim or a seasoned traveler, taking a few minutes to verify your service provider can make all the difference. With official resources at your fingertips—be it haj.gov.sa, awqaf.gov.ae, or hajj.nusuk.sa—there’s no excuse to fall victim to fraud. The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah’s proactive stance serves as both a warning and a lifeline, ensuring that this sacred journey remains a blessing, not a burden.
