Dr. Ayed Algwinm, Undersecretary of Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah for Hajj Affairs, described the fraud by fake Hajj companies as a “full-fledged crime” both at home and abroad.
He highlighted ongoing efforts with Pakistan, Egypt, Iraq, and other countries to tackle these Hajj-related scams, noting that authorities have already shut down many of these fraudulent operations.
Speaking to Asharq Al-Awsat, Algwinm detailed international efforts to track down fake companies, particularly in countries where these scams are common.
“We’ve been monitoring and taking action in these countries,” he said, noting that scammers know their victims can’t perform Hajj due to strict security measures in place in the Kingdom.
Domestically, Algwinm emphasized the national Hajj system’s readiness to fight these fraudulent practices.
“We are closely watching social media and have caught people trying to offer unauthorized Hajj services,” he affirmed.
Algwinm stressed the importance of using official channels for Hajj registration.
“We urge all prospective pilgrims to apply through the official Nusuk platform for domestic pilgrims, Hajj offices in Islamic countries, and the Nusuk Hajj platform for non-Islamic countries,” he said.
He welcomed those who have secured a spot for this year’s Hajj and warned that those without a permit face strict penalties, including fines up to SAR 10,000, deportation, and a ban on re-entry if caught trying to enter illegally.
Boosting services
Algwinm announced that regulations on service companies will be stricter for this year’s Hajj season. He emphasized zero tolerance for unauthorized entry into sacred sites, promising firm and deterrent measures.
Moreover, he expected more pilgrims to arrive in Saudi Arabia than last year and assured that the ministry and service providers are prepared to handle the increase.
Around 400 companies will be involved in providing services, transportation, and catering to ensure a smooth Hajj experience.
The private sector is essential in the Hajj system, asserted Algwinm.
He noted the involvement of 35 service companies, 63 transportation firms, and 300 catering providers, making the private sector a key partner in delivering Hajj services.
He added that the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah is focused on improving service quality by empowering the private sector.
“We've boosted service classifications to prevent fraud and ensure high standards,” he said, ensuring that pilgrims receive the services they were promised.
Monitoring companies
He underscored stronger regulations for companies during this year’s Hajj season.
He highlighted the compliance (Emtithal) initiative that details penalties for service providers who don’t follow plans during Hajj.
Two companies were permanently suspended from operating last year, according to Algwinm.
He stated that several companies were slapped with heavy fines for violations.
Additionally, the ministry compensated pilgrims who didn’t receive some services promised to them, refunding money to both domestic and international pilgrims.
