The Cabinet Media Centre has warned that Hajj and Umrah offers and advertisements circulating on unofficial social media pages are fake and designed to lure citizens into handing over their money to unlicensed entities.
In a statement published on its social media platforms on Wednesday, the centre said it had contacted the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities to verify the claims.
The ministry said the offers and advertisements promoted through unofficial pages were being circulated by illegal entities seeking to deceive citizens and seize their money. It urged citizens not to be misled by such advertisements or deal with unauthorised providers.
The ministry stressed that Hajj and Umrah trips must be organised through tourism companies licensed and accredited by the ministry.
The ministry also urged citizens to ensure that the company they are dealing with holds valid official licences and has a sound legal status before paying any money. It advised them to avoid unofficial entities and social media pages to protect their rights and avoid falling victim to fraud.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities continues to conduct extensive inspection campaigns targeting illegal entities promoting Hajj and Umrah programmes.
