The Association of British Hujjaj (Pilgrims) UK (ABH), a national Hajj-specific organisation working for the welfare and wellbeing of pilgrims, has strongly condemned the growing culture of corruption and malpractice promoted by rogue and unscrupulous Hajj service providers. These service providers are indulging in all sorts of malpractices and exploitation, which is causing extreme hardship, trauma, and mental anguish to vulnerable Hajj/Umrah pilgrims from around the world including the sick, the elderly, and the disabled.

These practices of exploitations and scams have now become a global phenomenon. The most alarming aspect of this growing culture of corruption and malpractice is that it has plagued the Hajj/Umrah travel industry to the extent that it is becoming a way of life. Values and norms have changed. The rogue and unscrupulous service providers have no hesitation in preying on vulnerable pilgrims. These scammers take undue advantage of pilgrims by charging extortionate prices for their services. It is a complete rip-off compared to similar travel packages to other destinations around the world, especially when taking into consideration that many pilgrims are likely to have spent their lifesavings in order to fulfil their religious obligation. The denial of basic human rights and dignity of the pilgrims is highly deplorable and authorities must not allow it to continue.

This extremely serious issue of malpractice and exploitation is affecting millions of Muslims worldwide. The Association of British Hujjaj (Pilgrims) UK has once again called upon the authorities in Kingdom of Saudi Arabia urging them to adopt a zero tolerance policy and carry out anti-corruption crackdowns against these rogue service providers. These corrupt service providers should not be allowed to get away but instead should be held accountable in a court of law so that Hajj/Umrah pilgrims may perform their religious obligations in peace and harmony.

© Press Release 2018