Fake and unregistered Hajj and Umrah travel agencies have been promoting sales of Hajj slots and Umrah packages on social media and WhatsApp platforms.
The existence of these unregistered Hajj and Umrah travel agencies has made it difficult for pilgrims to identify genuine ones from those who are out to defraud innocent pilgrims. Though, there are sub-agents who market Hajj and Umrah packages and later hand over their intending pilgrims to a registered travel agent.
Sometimes, the sub-agents advertise packages that is far more expensive than what the registered Company announces.
As an intending #Hajj or #Umrah #pilgrim, here are what you should look for or ask for before you make any attempt to patronise any Hajj or Umrah Companies
Office address—Any registered travel agency that has been cleared by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria must have an office address.
#NAHCON-approved Hajj or Umrah license or accreditation number —There is an operational license issued by NAHCON to all the travel and tour companies registered by NAHCON.
Beware of Personal payment: The Travel agency asks for cash, cryptocurrency or a transfer to an individual account rather than the contracting business account.
Check the package itself: Ask for the hotel names, room type, distance from the holy sites, flight booking reference, baggage policy, ground transport and meal plan if any. Verify flights on the airline’s own website and contact hotels using details from their official sites especially the Umrah Pilgrims
Contact numbers—A duly registered company must have dedicated numbers.
Prices significantly below the average: One of the tricks of fake or unregistered Tour Operators is to offer cheap Hajj or Umrah packages.
Inspect Payment Terms: Check for clear terms on refunds, cancellations, and any conditions
that may apply. Ensure the agency provides a written contract and receipt for payment.
Fake Websites/Social Media handles: Most fake travel agencies use AI to set up professional-looking websites or social media pages. They collect payments, then disappear shortly before departure.
Contact NAHCON operational units to verify whether such a company is duly registered or not.
Sent DMS to Independent Hajj Reporters via their WhatsApp or social media handles for further verification.
