Ministry of Hajj and Umrah: Beware of umrah offers far below the fair price of Rp26 million

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah (Kemenhaj) office in Jambi City has urged the public to be wary of travel agencies offering umrah packages at prices far below the fair rate.

Head of the Kemenhaj office in Jambi City, Muhammad Kholis, said in Jambi on Wednesday that price is one of the important things prospective pilgrims should consider before choosing an umrah travel agency.

“Whether it is called a subsidy or an empty seat, do not be too quick to believe it. If the price offered is Rp20 million to go to Saudi Arabia, just think logically: how much is the plane ticket, how much is the hotel,” he said.

The warning was issued following the case of dozens of prospective umrah pilgrims who failed to depart through PT Gema Suara Talbia some time ago.

Kholis said the cost of an umrah journey does not only cover plane tickets, but also accommodation, transport, and the needs of prospective pilgrims while in Saudi Arabia.

“The benchmark for umrah travel costs is based on the usual price before the increase in avtur prices and changes in airfare and exchange rates. Offers far below this figure should be scrutinised,” he said.

He asked prospective pilgrims to check the legality of the travel agency, the existence of its office, its departure track record, and the readiness of the organiser before handing over any money.

Kholis said prospective pilgrims should first exercise self-control, think logically, and only then make a decision, rather than trusting an agency simply because its appearance is convincing.

He reminded prospective pilgrims not to rush into paying merely because they are tempted by cheap prices and various promotional reasons offered by travel agencies.