Research has shown that every year millions of Muslims fall victim to the Hajj packages fraud. This can happen in a number of ways like you have paid for the Hajj packages 2020 by bank transfer and have not heard about it, or you land at Makkah or Medina and discover that your accommodation has not been reserved and paid for. However, there are some essential keys that we are going to mention that you can keep in mind and protect yourself.
1. Only buy the packages from the legal and accredited travelling company. It can also be a company recommended by someone else.
2. Check the feedback they have received from the customers who have used their packages. Also, make sure that there is a number of reviews.
3. Ensure that the travel agent is accredited by the Saudi Embassy.
4. Check whether the specific company is the member of the ABTA, and they have a code of conduct to follow. You can confirm this from the ABTA website.
5. You need to make sure that the company is ATOL protected. In this way, if the company gets closed while you are away for whatever reason, you will be protected. You can also have this checked on the ABTA website or by calling on their number. Also, you can check through the Ministry of Hajj.
6. It is best that you get the payment receipts, airline bookings and tickets, and hotel confirmation in writing. Also, keep a record of it from start to finish.
7. Avoid paying with cash, and paying through bank transfer into an individual bank account. The feature of a legitimate company is that they accept online payment through a debit card.
Few Practical Tips for Hajj and Umrah
People often asked about advice on Hajj and Umrah, and due to this, we have also compiled the following useful tips to assist you in making most out of your trip.
1. Pack 2 or 3 sets of ihram clothes. It is because in case one gets dirty or begins to smell, you can easily change it.
2. Relying on the season, always take warm clothes, because the nights usually get colder.
3.Take some basic medication including paracetamol, plasters for blisters on the toes and diarrhoea medicinal drug.
4.Take an umbrella to protect your self from the sun, and have sunglasses as well.
5. Pack a light prayer matt because the floor of the haram is made of marble and can be uncomfortable to pray on. Also, in case you suffering any medical issues with your feet, take padded socks or slippers, so you don’t experience pain from the hard ground.
6.Take lightweight cotton or plastic bag in which you can put your shoes in. So that they don’t get misplaced amongst everyone else’s.
7. Photocopy your essential files, together with your passport, and leave one at the back of and take one with you if you lose your originals.
8. Memorise duas which might be important to you earlier than you go and make a list of what you have to make dua for at critical times which include at Arafat or on Safa and Marwa.
9. Wear cosy, durable sandals or footwear as you may be doing quite a few taking walks. Take vaseline to prevent your top thighs from getting sore from rubbing due to the taking walks.
10.Women need to take a pair of scissors in order that it is easy to cut your hair at the end of the Hajj.
11. If you are travelling in a group, arrange a common meeting place so that no one gets lost during Hajj.