The Chamber of Tourism Companies has warned citizens wishing to apply for the tourist Hajj against dealing with brokers or unlicensed entities that promote Hajj programs on social media without the necessary licenses and approvals, stressing that dealing with licensed tour companies is the safe way to protect citizens' rights and ensure they receive the services they contract for.
The chamber said tour companies continue to receive applications from citizens wishing to apply for the tourist Hajj and to register their data in line with the rules and procedures for the current 1448 AH/2027 season, until 27 September. It urged citizens to rely on official channels and not to be swayed by offers or advertisements from unlicensed parties.
The chamber stressed the need to make sure that the company a citizen deals with is licensed by the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, that the contract is concluded formally, and that contracts, payment receipts and all program documents are kept.
The chamber explained that dealing with brokers and unlicensed entities carries major risks, including losing money or not receiving the agreed services, as well as the difficulty of recovering one's rights when dealing with parties not subject to official oversight.
The chamber warned citizens against paying any sums to persons or entities of unknown legal standing, stressing the need to verify the identity and license of the advertising party before taking any step or making any payment, especially given the spread of Hajj advertisements on social media platforms.
It affirmed that companies are committed to the rules and regulations governing the Hajj season and work in line with the procedures approved by the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities and under its oversight, ensuring the season is organized in a way that protects pilgrims' rights and supports compliance in delivering programs and services.
The chamber urges citizens wishing to perform Hajj to be careful when choosing a tour company, not to deal with any intermediary or unlicensed entity, to make sure the booking and contract are completed through a licensed tour company, and to steer clear of the promises and fake programs of social media activists, to protect their rights.
