Saudi Arabia Warns of Fake Hajj Schemes

Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah affirms that getting a Hajj visa is through official channels or via the “Nusuk Hajj” platform for those without local offices (Photo by Mohammed Al-Mana)
Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah affirms that getting a Hajj visa is through official channels or via the “Nusuk Hajj” platform for those without local offices (Photo by Mohammed Al-Mana)
TT
20

Saudi Arabia Warns of Fake Hajj Schemes

Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah affirms that getting a Hajj visa is through official channels or via the “Nusuk Hajj” platform for those without local offices (Photo by Mohammed Al-Mana)
Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah affirms that getting a Hajj visa is through official channels or via the “Nusuk Hajj” platform for those without local offices (Photo by Mohammed Al-Mana)

Saudi Arabia cautioned potential Hajj pilgrims on Friday to beware of fraudulent schemes advertised on social media in various countries, urging everyone to follow the rules and laws.

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah explained that getting a Hajj visa is through official channels in Saudi Arabia or via the “Nusuk Hajj” platform for those without local offices.

The Ministry warned against fake ads promising cheap Hajj trips and praised Iraq’s efforts in arresting over 25 fake companies promoting “commercial Hajj.”

Only Hajj authorities can issue visas to Iraqi citizens, not any company or office claiming otherwise on social media, stressed the Ministry.

It reminded people that visas for Umrah, tourism, etc., don't allow Hajj pilgrimage, urging compliance with official rules and not to trust fake companies.

The Saudi Council of Senior Scholars explained that obtaining a Hajj permit aims to facilitate worship and ensure safety, emphasizing it’s obligatory for public benefit.

The Council advised pilgrims to follow rules, safeguard their Hajj, and perform it safely and smoothly.



UAE and Syria to Resume Flights 

Syrian interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa shakes hands with UAE's President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, April 13, 2025. (Syrian Presidency/Handout via Reuters)
Syrian interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa shakes hands with UAE's President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, April 13, 2025. (Syrian Presidency/Handout via Reuters)
TT
20

UAE and Syria to Resume Flights 

Syrian interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa shakes hands with UAE's President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, April 13, 2025. (Syrian Presidency/Handout via Reuters)
Syrian interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa shakes hands with UAE's President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, April 13, 2025. (Syrian Presidency/Handout via Reuters)

The United Arab Emirates’ General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) announced on Monday the resumption of flights between the UAE and Syria.

In a statement, the GCAA said that joint coordination is currently underway to complete the necessary procedures for restarting flights in a manner that boosts air traffic and supports passenger and cargo movement between them.

The announcement was made shortly after a visit by Syrian interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa to the UAE last week where he met with President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for talk on a number of issues of mutual interest. They also exchanged views on regional and international developments.