TASHKENT, Uzbekistan – Podrobno.uz. An Umrah pilgrimage is one of the most significant events in a Muslim's life. People prepare for months, save money, and carefully choose an organizer. However, high demand and the emotional importance of the journey create fertile ground for scammers.
Most problems begin at the stage of choosing an organizer. People focus on price. They see an offer cheaper than the market rate and agree without asking questions. The price difference is explained not by the company's efficiency, but by the lack of mandatory expenses: confirmed accommodation, contracts with partners, transport services.
In fact, a person buys not a ready tour, but a promise. How well it will be fulfilled depends solely on the integrity of the intermediary. Private organizers working through social media and messengers pose a particular danger, as they bear no legal responsibility.
"Unfortunately, there are cases when citizens turn to organizations or individuals who do not have the necessary authority and capabilities to organize a pilgrimage trip properly," says Islamiddin Sirojiddinov, chief specialist of the Diversification Department of the Tourism Committee of Uzbekistan.
A licensed operator is obliged to solve clients' problems – this requirement is strictly stated in the contract and enshrined in law. An illegal intermediary bears no such responsibility. Often, the promised hotel five minutes from the al-Haram Mosque turns out to be budget apartments on the far outskirts of the city.
The worst-case scenario is when the organizer simply takes the entire amount, does not process visas, and stops communicating. As a result, the person is left without money and without the pilgrimage. "The pilgrim must clearly understand to whom he is entrusting his trip. This is not an ordinary tourist vacation, but one of the most important and sacred events in a believer's life," Sirojiddinov emphasizes.
How to avoid being scammed? First, check whether the company has an official license. Never agree to verbal agreements – the entire list of services must be recorded in a written contract. It is important to understand exactly what is included in the stated price. If the final price is significantly lower than the market average, ask directly about the reasons for such generosity.
Additionally, check the company's reputation on independent platforms, not just on its own website. Be especially cautious about offers on social media and messengers. Private intermediaries typically have no licenses or direct agreements with foreign partners.
According to Sirojiddinov, the emergence of illegal intermediaries is almost inevitable in any sphere with high demand. The state's task is to create conditions where it is easier and safer for citizens to use the services of official operators. "We are working to raise public awareness and develop a civilized tourism services market," he says.
As long as demand for Umrah continues to grow, interest from unscrupulous intermediaries will persist. Therefore, the main tool in combating the gray market remains the awareness of citizens and their willingness to choose trusted and responsible companies.
Source: podrobno.uz