Important warning for those wishing to perform Hajj

Entry to Mecca with a tourist visa during Hajj is prohibited.

BAKU.WS was informed about this by Vusal Jahangiri, the head of external relations department of the Caucasus Muslims Board (CMB) and the person responsible for the electronic system for Hajj pilgrimage.

He noted that, like last year, some unscrupulous companies are trying to deceive citizens by offering to send them to Hajj with tourist visas.

"According to our information, about 100 or maybe more of our citizens, having succumbed to the tempting promises of such operators, have paid them significant amounts of money. We once again categorically inform citizens that the visa for Hajj is a completely different visa, and it can only be obtained through the Caucasus Muslims Board, which has been granted exclusive authority by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah of Saudi Arabia," he said.

According to the CMB representative, entering Mecca during the Hajj season with a tourist visa contradicts the laws of the Kingdom, which is also indicated on the tourist visa itself.

"Violators of this law face severe penalties from law enforcement agencies, such as high fines and arrests, deportations, and being blacklisted. Unlike last year, the fine for violating this law has doubled and amounts to 10 thousand Saudi riyals (approximately 2,700 US dollars - ed.). We have accurate information that last year many of our citizens fell victim to such companies. We warn once again that believers should not fall for the tricks of such operators and not subject themselves to serious material and moral damage," emphasized V. Jahangiri.