Srinagar, Jan 27 : The Jammu Kashmir Association of Hajj and Umrah Companies (JKAHUC) has raised serious concerns about the unregulated practices and exploitation in Hajj and Umrah bookings, urging the Ministry of Hajj in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for decisive action against ‘fraudulent’ hotel booking agents in Madina.
Sheikh Feroz, President JKAHUC while speaking to the news agency revealed that some agents, particularly in Makkah and Madinah, were resorting to ‘unethical’ practices like ‘black marketing and price manipulation.’
“The booking system is chaotic and dominated by unorganized players,” he said, adding that some agents exploit last-minute bookings by withholding rooms and charging exorbitant fees.
“At the 11th hour, agents blackmail companies by demanding higher payments for basic facilities. This unregulated system is severely impacting pilgrims and companies alike,” he added.
Feroze said that they urge Saudi authorities to intervene. He appealed to the Ministry of Hajj in Saudi Arabia to regulate these practices and ensure fair pricing. “The situation calls for immediate attention from Saudi governments to protect the interests of pilgrims and companies involved in this trade,” he said.
He stressed the need for a streamlined system to eliminate black marketing and ensure transparency. “The emotional and financial toll on us is unacceptable. This trade should not be left at the mercy of unscrupulous agents,” he said.
The JKAHUC President, however, said that they were committed to advocating for the rights of pilgrims and called for better coordination among stakeholders to address these pressing issues. “This is not just a business concern, it’s about preserving the sanctity of Hajj and Umrah and safeguarding the dignity of those undertaking these spiritual journeys,” he said.
In a release, the JKAHUC added that for the past two years they have been grappling with the escalating issue of fraudulent hotel booking agents in Madina. These unscrupulous agents’ pre-purchase low-category hotels, only to deny reservations at the last minute, leaving pilgrims with no choice but to pay exorbitant prices for alternative accommodations.
This disturbing trend has resulted in significant financial burdens on our members, with groups facing losses of 400,000 to 500,000 per group, despite initial budgets of 120,000 to 125,000. The situation has become even more dire, with accommodations within the central area of Haram (Markazia) becoming increasingly scarce and unaffordable.
In light of these challenges, we humbly appeal to the Ministry of Hajj to take immediate action to address this situation. We request the establishment of a reliable channel for reporting and addressing the actions of these fraudulent agents, ensuring that they are held accountable for their practices.
The JKAHUC also urged fellow stakeholders, including travel agents, pilgrims, and all involved parties, to approach this situation with understanding and patience. “We recognize that itinerary changes may be necessary and ask that everyone work together to navigate these challenges calmly,” JKAHUC said.
