Saudi Arabia has arrested three expats who were found promoting fake campaigns for Muslim Hajj pilgrimage through social media. The arrest was made in the Saudi holy city of Mecca and the three Egyptian residents were later referred for prosecution. Security agencies in the kingdom have urged the public to report any bogus publicity regarding Hajj journeys. The Saudi Ministry of Hajj has been repeatedly warning people about fraudsters who publicize Hajj campaigns. Companies licensed for organizing Hajj trips can be verified via the ministry’s website and the Nusuk app designated for domestic pilgrims. Registration for pilgrims from Europe, the two Americas, and Australia is via the Nusuk Hajj platform, while for those from Islamic countries, registration is done through the Hajj affairs offices.
Saudi authorities have made it clear that the visa for Umrah or lesser pilgrimage is not valid for performing Hajj near Mecca. Every Muslim who can physically and financially afford Hajj must perform it at least once in a lifetime. Hajj, which is one of Islam’s five obligatory duties, is due later this month. Saudi Arabia has stated that there will be no restrictions on the number of pilgrims from around the world for the upcoming Hajj season, reversing earlier limitations prompted by the COVID-19 pandemic. In the past two years, Saudi Arabia downsized the number of Muslims allowed to perform Hajj to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Before the pandemic, around 2.5 million Muslims used to attend Hajj annually.
This arrest highlights the importance of verifying information before making any kind of commitment, especially when it comes to religious pilgrimages. The Saudi Ministry of Hajj has made it easier for pilgrims to confirm whether the companies are licensed or not. It is essential to avoid falling into the trap of fake campaigns and unlicensed companies that seek to take advantage of the public’s religious devotion. The Saudi Arabian authorities have taken strict measures to ensure the safety and comfort of all pilgrims coming from across the world. The Hajj holds immense significance in Muslim culture and it is essential that it be carried out with sincerity and in accordance with the established guidelines.
