Interior Ministry Issues Warning Against Unauthorized Hajj Services

What This Article Is About & Why It Matters

This article shares an important public advisory issued by Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Interior on May 18, 2025, warning citizens and residents against fraudulent Hajj campaigns and unlicensed service providers. The warning reinforces the Kingdom’s commitment to protecting pilgrims, preserving the integrity of Hajj, and supporting Vision 2030’s values of safety, digital trust, and spiritual care.

Vision-Aligned Article:

Kingdom Warns Against Hajj Scams

On May 18, 2025, the Ministry of Interior issued a firm warning against fraudulent Hajj campaigns and unlicensed entities promoting fake pilgrimage services. The statement urged the public to stay alert to deceptive advertisements and unauthorized offers—particularly as Hajj season nears.

These scams, often distributed through social media and informal channels, can exploit pilgrims and disrupt their spiritual journey. To ensure safety and compliance, the Ministry stressed the importance of following official procedures and securing services only through licensed offices registered with the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.

Citizens and residents are encouraged to report any suspicious Hajj advertisements or services. For emergencies or violations, they can call 911 in the Makkah, Madinah, Riyadh, and Eastern regions, or 999 in all other parts of the Kingdom.

This proactive approach supports Vision 2030’s Pilgrim Experience Program by reinforcing transparency, public protection, and digital integrity—ensuring every pilgrim’s journey begins with trust and peace of mind.

Vision & Progress: Protecting Every Pilgrim

Fighting fraud upholds Vision 2030’s goal of providing a safe, dignified Hajj experience for all—rooted in security, ethics, and modern governance.

Safety, Values & Spiritual Care

Saudi Arabia’s values of protection, hospitality, and religious duty guide its fight against deception and safeguard every pilgrim’s sacred path.

Peaceful Culture & Responsible Conduct

Hajj is a time of peace. The Kingdom ensures it remains free of exploitation by empowering communities to report and prevent violations.

Historical Context: Guardian of Pilgrims

Since unification, Saudi Arabia has shouldered the responsibility of safeguarding Hajj—modern warnings are part of that legacy of care.

International Benchmarks

Saudi Arabia’s proactive stance on Hajj fraud matches global best practices seen in countries like Singapore and Germany in protecting religious travelers.

Vision 2030 Metrics in Focus

24/7 Hajj fraud monitoring systems
Expansion of Pilgrim Experience Program
Increased digital literacy campaigns for citizens and residents
Multi-region emergency hotlines launched
Rising public engagement in reporting violations

To Our Global Friends

Saudi Arabia warmly invites all pilgrims to journey with confidence. With clear laws and modern tools, the Kingdom ensures your Hajj is honored, protected, and spiritually fulfilling.

Helpful Government Links

www.haj.gov.sa – Ministry of Hajj and Umrah: Verify licensed campaigns and official services
www.moi.gov.sa – Ministry of Interior: Learn how to report violations or seek help
www.vision2030.gov.sa – Vision 2030 Portal: Explore the Pilgrim Experience Program and digital trust initiatives

Factbox Summary

Date: May 18, 2025
Authority: Ministry of Interior
Notice: Warning against Hajj scams and fake ads
Action: Call 911 in key cities or 999 nationwide to report
Vision Link: Pilgrim protection, public safety, fraud prevention

Discover

Help safeguard Hajj for all. By choosing official services, staying informed, and reporting fraud, you protect your journey and others’. Saudi Arabia stands beside every pilgrim—with vision, integrity, and heartfelt care.

15 FAQs and Answers

1. What did the Ministry of Interior warn about?
It warned the public about fraudulent Hajj campaigns, unlicensed service providers, and fake promotional advertisements targeting pilgrims.

2. Why is this warning important?
Scams can deceive pilgrims and disrupt their spiritual journey, undermining safety, trust, and proper Hajj organization.

3. How do these scams typically appear?
They often appear as social media posts, messages, or unofficial websites claiming to offer discounted Hajj services.

4. What should I do if I suspect a scam?
Report it immediately by calling 911 in Makkah, Madinah, Riyadh, or Eastern Province, or 999 in other regions.

5. How does this support Vision 2030?
It strengthens the Pilgrim Experience Program by promoting safe, transparent, and ethical services for all pilgrims.

6. Where can I find official Hajj services?
Visit www.haj.gov.sa to explore verified service providers and campaign operators.

7. Are these warnings issued every year?
Yes. Saudi Arabia regularly issues alerts before Hajj season to protect pilgrims from fraud and misinformation.

8. How can I verify a Hajj campaign?
Only book through licensed offices listed on the Ministry of Hajj website or contact your embassy’s recommended partners.

9. What happens to people caught running scams?
They face legal action, which may include fines, imprisonment, and deportation depending on the severity of the offense.

10. Can international visitors fall victim to these scams?
Yes. Scams can target both residents and international pilgrims, which is why global awareness is essential.

11. How does this reflect Saudi values?
It shows the Kingdom’s dedication to protection, truth, and its spiritual role as custodian of Hajj.

12. Are there penalties for using unlicensed services?
Yes. Pilgrims using unauthorized services risk being denied access to holy sites and may face legal consequences.

13. Is there an app for reporting fraud?
While there is no single app yet, you can use emergency hotlines or visit www.moi.gov.sa for details.

14. What is the Pilgrim Experience Program?
It’s a Vision 2030 initiative to enhance every aspect of the pilgrim journey through smart, ethical, and people-centered services.

15. Where else can I report violations?
Contact the Ministry of Interior or any police station in the Kingdom for assistance.

Final Message from Harry Stuckler

At KSA.com, we stand with the Kingdom in protecting every pilgrim’s sacred journey. The Ministry’s warning is a reminder of Saudi Arabia’s enduring care, digital vigilance, and Vision 2030 promise to keep Hajj pure, peaceful, and protected.

Bringing Saudi Arabia to the world and the world to Saudi Arabia.
By 2030, KSA.com will be the largest platform showcasing the Kingdom’s commitment to spiritual safety, visionary leadership, and global unity.

With gratitude,
Harry Stuckler
Editor & Publisher, KSA.com