City of London Police warn UK Pilgrims to stay alert to Hajj-related fraud as £150,000 lost to criminals last year

The City of London Police and Action Fraud are urging UK Pilgrims who are either embarking on their Hajj pilgrimage to Makkah this summer, or who are looking to book last minute packages, to stay vigilant for Hajj-related fraud this year.  

Action Fraud data revealed there was £150,000 of combined losses in reports related to Hajj fraud in 2024, with insights suggesting victims lost their life savings in many cases. 

Commander Umer Khan, from City of London Police, said: 

“The impact of Hajj-related fraud can be devastating as many use their life savings to embark on this spiritual pilgrimage. That’s why it’s vital we urge British Pilgrims, including those making the journey to Makkah this summer, to stay alert to criminals looking to take advantage and rob them of the experience of a lifetime. 

“We recommend only using the official Nusuk website to book your Hajj, as criminals will try to lure you off the site. Avoid paying via cash as this is a key sign of a fraud: protect yourself by paying with a credit card if you can and keeping a paper trail. If you’re in doubt, refer to FCDO Travel Advice or the Nusuk website for further information.  

“Anyone who has been affected by Hajj fraud should report to Action Fraud. The more information we have, the better it will help us build a wider intelligence picture of the issue and help prevent criminals looking to exploit the faith and trust of communities across the UK.” 

City of London Police and Action Fraud recommend anyone booking Hajj packages should only use the official website, the Nusuk platform, which can be accessible via the FCDO Travel Advice site for Saudi Arabia. Anyone who thinks they have been a victim of Hajj-related fraud should report it to Action Fraud at actionfraud.police.uk.  

Those looking for last minute Hajj deals on the Nusuk platform could be targeted as the packages get booked up quickly. Criminals will look to exploit victims, using fake websites posing as official booking site or agents, and insist on managing bookings and payments outside of the official platform.  

To avoid Hajj-related fraud, authorities recommend the following tips: 

• Use the official Nusuk website to book your Hajj and only book it with one of the travel agents listed on the site. 

• Research the travel agent using trusted websites and reviews before you complete your booking. 

• Hajj packages are not ATOL protected, so ask for advice from your travel agent on how this may affect your pilgrimage. 

• Keep all receipts and details of your payments, and follow the advice on the Nusuk website about how and when to make payments. 

To report Hajj-related fraud, contact Action Fraud online at www.actionfraud.police.uk or call 0300 123 2040. In Scotland, reports can be made by calling Police Scotland on 101.