JEDDAH: The Ministry of Haj has set up a service center in Jeddah and activated a toll-free number, 8002444480, so that local callers can check the credentials of Haj operators before making a booking. The call center is to help local pilgrims get information on which companies are authorized by the Ministry of Haj to take pilgrims on the holy journey. The ministry has warned local pilgrims that they will only be allowed to perform Haj with licensed Haj operators and with an official permit, known in Arabic as a Tasriya. The ministry urged citizens and residents who are planning to perform Haj this year to visit the website of the General Administration for the affairs of local pilgrims at www.localhaj.gov.sa. A statement released by the ministry said the website will provide visitors with integrated information on Haj operators, including their license number and telephone numbers. Mustafa Shabib, president of AB International Company, who has organized the call center, said the toll-free number is already operational and will be available until Haj starts. “The service offers telephone numbers and the locations of Haj service companies' main offices and also branches at the ritual sites. The Ministry of Haj has provided us with a program and a list of the companies authorized to serve local pilgrims,” he said. According to an advisory issued by the ministry, local pilgrims may perform the Haj – alone or with a group – only through a licensed Haj service company. The advisory urges pilgrims to ensure that any agreement concluded with a licensed operator states what facilities are guaranteed, especially the space booked at the tents in Mina and the transportation arrangements. The service company can help to get permits for local pilgrims by providing the necessary documentation, the advisory said. Also, pilgrims are urged to avoid using private vehicles. The advisory warned that those violating Haj regulations would be penalized. It said a committee has been formed to look into any violations committed by travel agents or Haj operators and recommend appropriate penalties.
