Residents report Umrah package scam allegedly involving Dubai travel agency

Residents have reported losing money in an alleged Umrah package scam linked to a Dubai-based travel agency, according to accounts circulating among expatriate communities in the Gulf. The agency has not been named publicly, and no official findings or statement from authorities have been released. The number of people affected and the amounts involved have not been confirmed.

The complaints follow a familiar pattern. Pilgrims pay in advance for a package covering flights, hotel stays in Makkah and Madinah, ground transport and visa processing, then find that bookings were never made or that the agency cannot be reached close to the travel date. Because many Umrah packages are sold through social media, messaging apps and word of mouth, buyers often have little documentation when something goes wrong.

Saudi Arabia has moved much of the Umrah process online. Through the Nusuk platform run with the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, pilgrims can obtain permits, and those eligible can book accommodation and services directly. Many Gulf residents can also travel on Saudi tourist or GCC resident visas that permit Umrah. This reduces the need to hand large sums to intermediaries.

In Dubai, travel agencies must be licensed by the Department of Economy and Tourism. Prospective customers can check a company's trade licence before paying. Residents of Qatar and other Gulf states booking through agencies abroad should take the same step.

Consumer advice is consistent across the region. Ask for a written contract listing hotel names, dates and flight details. Confirm hotel reservations directly with the property. Avoid cash payments or transfers to personal accounts. Pay by credit card where possible, since card payments can be disputed. Victims are advised to keep receipts and chat records and to report cases to police and consumer protection authorities in the country where they paid.