The Jammu & Kashmir Association of Hajj & Umrah Companies (JKAHUC) has issued an urgent plea to the Ministry of Hajj in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, calling for decisive action against fraudulent hotel booking agents in Madina.
The association has highlighted growing concerns over unethical practices that have severely disrupted accommodations for pilgrims over the past two years.
According to JKAHUC, these agents pre-book low-category hotels in advance, only to cancel reservations at the last minute. This leaves pilgrims stranded and forces them to pay exorbitant rates for alternative accommodations. The issue has created significant financial strain on Hajj and Umrah tour operators, with groups reporting losses ranging from Rs 400,000 to Rs 500,000, despite budgeting between Rs 120,000 and Rs 125,000 for lodging.
Adding to the challenges, accommodations within the central area of Haram (Markazia) have become increasingly scarce and unaffordable, exacerbating the problem for pilgrims and tour operators alike.
In their appeal, JKAHUC has requested the Ministry of Hajj to establish a reliable mechanism to report and address fraudulent practices. They also urged stricter accountability measures for agents involved in unethical activities to ensure a fair and transparent system for all stakeholders.
The association has called on travel agents, pilgrims, and other stakeholders to remain patient and cooperative as itinerary adjustments may be necessary.
JKAHUC hoped that immediate intervention by the Ministry of Hajj would restore trust, alleviate financial pressures, and safeguard the sanctity of the pilgrimage experience.