The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has urged pilgrims planning to perform Hajj in 2025 to avoid falling for fraudulent schemes and to book only through authorised tour operators.
In a public advisory, the ministry warned that fake websites and unlicensed operators are targeting intending pilgrims with false offers. To ensure legitimacy, Saudi nationals and residents are advised to verify service providers through the official website www.haj.gov.sa, while UAE residents can check awqaf.gov.ae for approved operators.
International pilgrims, including those from Pakistan, must use the Nusuk platform at hajj.nusuk.sa for all official bookings. The platform lists licensed companies and provides end-to-end services to facilitate the pilgrimage.
Saudi Arabia has approved an additional 10,000 Hajj slots for Pakistani pilgrims, officials confirmed on Friday.
The announcement comes after Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister Muhammad Ishaq Dar requested the increase during talks with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud.
According to Pakistani officials, the move highlights the close relationship between the two countries and Riyadh’s ongoing support for the Pakistani people.
With thousands still on waiting lists, authorities say the increased quota will help accommodate more applicants and reduce the burden ahead of Hajj 2025.