Birmingham Trading Standards warn residents to stay vigilant against Hajj fraud

With many UK Muslims preparing for the annual pilgrimage to Hajj in Makkah, Saudi Arabia, criminals are increasingly targeting prospective pilgrims. Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam and is a once-in-a-lifetime spiritual journey for many, making victims particularly vulnerable to scams involving life savings. 

Hajj 2026 is expected to take place between approximately 25 May and 30 May, depending on the sighting of the moon. 

Residents planning to undertake Hajj are strongly advised to book only through the official Nusuk Hajj Portal and ensure their travel arrangements are protected by ATOL. 

Any packages offered outside this official platform—including those promoted via social media, messaging apps, or unauthorised agents—may be fraudulent and carry significant financial risk. 

Key Hajj fraud warnings and safety advice 

• Book through official channels: The Nusuk Hajj Portal is the only authorised platform for UK pilgrims. 
• Be cautious of “too good to be true” deals: Unrealistically cheap or “exclusive” offers are often scams. 
• Check credentials: Ensure travel companies are registered with Companies House and hold valid ABTA and ATOL protection. 
• Use secure payment methods: Avoid bank transfers; pay by credit card where possible for greater protection. 
• Verify before you commit: Take time to check reviews, credentials, and official registration.

Common fraud techniques 

• Fake travel agents: Fraudsters may take payment and disappear or provide fake bookings. 
• Visa scams: Criminals may sell invalid visas or claim access to non-existent “extra slots.” 
• Misrepresented accommodation: Packages may promise high-quality hotels but deliver substandard conditions. 
• Fake documents: Fraudulent tickets and travel confirmations may be issued. 

Past enforcement cases 

Birmingham Trading Standards have successfully prosecuted fraudsters, including cases where individuals were jailed for selling non-existent Hajj trips and falsely claiming ATOL protection. 

Sajeela Naseer, Director of Regulation & Enforcement at Birmingham City Council, said: “Hajj is a deeply important and personal journey, and sadly scammers exploit this by targeting people at a vulnerable time. We urge residents to only use the official Nusuk platform and to thoroughly check any travel provider before parting with money. If something seems too good to be true, it probably is.”