Haj 2024 Guidelines – (Hijri – 1445) : Best Feeling

Haj 2024 – Essential Information for Pilgrims

Introduction:

If you’re physically and financially able to go on Haj in 2024 (Hijri – 1445), you can apply. Make sure you meet the criteria mentioned in the guidelines and follow instructions from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) for Haj 2024.

The KSA might change its guidelines for Haj 2024, including canceling the pilgrimage for international pilgrims based on conditions at that time. If this happens, the Haj Committee of India (HCol) won’t be responsible for any changes in eligibility or the cancellation of Haj, either in part or entirely. This includes any financial responsibilities due to decisions made by the KSA.

Expectations:
We hope that Haj 2024 will have improved services and facilities for intending pilgrims of HCoI. The exact cost for pilgrims will be determined after services are arranged in India and Saudi Arabia. Only those who can afford Haj should apply after confirming their eligibility and ensuring they have the means to undertake Haj, following the eligibility norms for Haj – 2024 (Hijri – 1445).

Preface:
The Haj Committee of India (HCol), a statutory body under the Ministry of Minority Affairs, Government of India, is issuing guidelines for those willing to apply for Haj 2024 (Hijri – 1445). If you’re considering performing Haj in 2024, carefully read the guidelines before submitting the online Haj Application Form (HAF).

Overview:

• The Haj Committee of India (HCoI) operates under the Haj Committee of India Act, 2002. It organizes arrangements for Haj pilgrims in India in collaboration with other stakeholders. The Consulate General of India in Jeddah (referred to as CGI) is responsible for making arrangements and addressing grievances of pilgrims in Saudi Arabia. The Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) handles air charter arrangements, and the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoH&FW) provides medical assistance and vaccines during Haj.
• HCoI maintains administrative relations with State/Union Territory Haj Committees (SHCs) for Haj operations and not with private individuals or agencies.
• Pilgrims must check HCoI’s website for payment details. They should beware of individuals or agencies claiming to represent HCoI and should not pay any amount to them. False claims or demands for money should be reported to the Chief Executive Officer of Haj Committee of India.
• Shia pilgrims opting for JOHFA as Meeqat must indicate it during Haj 2024 application. Additional charges will apply, and the amount will be communicated later.

2. Once in a Lifetime Haj through Haj Committee of India:

• According to the policy, an individual can perform Haj through HCoI only once in a lifetime. Those who have previously performed Haj through HCoI are ineligible for Haj 2024. Repeaters, including Mehram for lady pilgrims and companions over 70 years, can apply with additional charges. In such cases, pilgrims must submit a declaration confirming the unavailability of a first-time Mehram or companion in their family.

Accessing Guidelines and Applying for Haj – 2024:

Pilgrims can get the guidelines for Haj – 2024 (Hijri – 1445) from the HCol website at www.hajcommittee.gov.in . The Haj Application Form (HAF) can be filled and submitted online at www.hajcommittee.gov.in or through the “HAJ SUVIDHA” Android Mobile App. Once the HAF is filled, a copy should be downloaded for later submission at respective State Haj Committees (SHCs) along with necessary documents like Passport and Remittance Receipt upon selection.

Check January, February and Ramzan Umrah Package Here

3. Eligibility for Haj:
   Haj is mandatory for Muslims who are physically and financially capable. The Saudi Guidelines specify that pilgrims should be physically, behaviorally, and mentally fit. Any Indian Muslim can apply for Haj except:

• Those without a machine-readable valid Indian International Passport issued before the prescribed closing date of Haj Application, valid until at least 31.01.2025.
• Haj Repeaters, except those applying under the Mehram category for a lady pilgrim or as a companion for pilgrims aged 70 years or above, based on a solemn Declaration and Undertaking.
• Individuals providing false information will be disqualified and de-boarded at the Embarkation Point. The deposited amount will be forfeited, and legal action may be taken for making false declarations. These conditions apply to concealing previous Haj performances and Hajj-e-Badal pilgrims.
• Those with severe medical conditions such as Terminal Cancer, Advanced Cardiac, Respiratory, Liver, Kidney diseases, Infectious Tuberculosis disease, or Senility.
• Ladies not accompanied by a Sharia Mehram, except those traveling without their Mehram as stipulated in Sr.No.5 of Haj Policy for Haj 2024.
• Ladies in the advanced stage of pregnancy, with international flying standards being followed.
• Any person subject to a Court Order prohibiting travel abroad.
• Applicants below the age of 18 years, except those for whom the consent of parents/legal guardian has been obtained.

5. MANAGEMENT OF HAJ PROCESS:
   (a) HAJ ANNOUNCEMENT: The process for Haj begins with the Ministry of Minority Affairs (MoMA), Government of India, announcing Haj. After the announcement, the Haj Committee notifies intending pilgrims about when to submit application forms and the deadline, along with details like Passport validity. Those interested in applying for Haj 2024 should follow the announced timelines.
   (b) APPLICATION PREPARATION: The Haj Committee of India has prepared for online application submissions. Individuals applying for Haj 2024 should carefully read guidelines to ensure eligibility. They should also have the following documents ready:
   (i) PASSPORT: Pilgrims need a valid machine-readable Indian Passport issued before the application deadline. Regional Passport Offices will assist in issuing passports for Haj pilgrims.
   (ii) BANK ACCOUNT: The Cover Head must have a mandatory bank account for Haj Application. Pilgrims are advised to open/update their accounts for digital refunds through RTGS/NEFT.
   (iii) MOBILE NUMBER: Pilgrims must provide their correct mobile number for receiving information and instructions through SMS/Voice messages. However, this doesn’t guarantee seat allocation if timelines aren’t followed due to non-receipt of messages.
   (iv) AADHAAR CARD: While not mandatory, pilgrims are advised to fill in Aadhaar Card details in the application for convenience.
6. PASSPORT SUBMISSION:
   Haj Applicants will submit passports in two groups:
   A) GROUP ONE: Applicants from specific states and those aged 70+ with a companion must submit a downloaded copy of the online HAF along with the original passport and a photograph.
   B) GROUP TWO: All other selected applicants submit a downloaded copy of the online HAF along with a self-attested copy of the passport. Provisionally selected pilgrims must submit their original passport within a week after Qurrah to their respective SHCs.
   (C) EXTENDED PASSPORT SUBMISSION DATE: For specific cases like NRIs, frequent flyers, Umrah Pilgrims, officials, and those traveling abroad for medical or family reasons, the extended last date for passport submission is mentioned. Applicants may apply for a late submission with valid reasons and documentary proof.
   (D) NON-RETURNING OF PASSPORTS: Generally, passports submitted to HCoI are returned to selected pilgrims before boarding Haj flights. However, in cases where Haj Visa is endorsed on the passport, it can be returned only at Embarkation Points or on cancellation of Haj Visa.

To apply for Haj, follow these steps:

1. Application Process:

• The Haj application is completely digital and online.
• No processing fee is charged during the application.
• Instructions and guidance for the Haj process are available through short video clips on the Haj Committee of India’s website.
• Watch relevant video clips on YouTube before submitting your Haj Application.
• FAQs and their answers are also available on the website.

2. Online Submission:

• Submit your Haj Application online only at www.hajcommittee.gov.in or through the Haj App on Android called “HAJ SUVIDHA.”
• Upload the following documents:
  • First and last page of your Indian Passport.
  • Latest passport-size photograph.
  • Copy of a cancelled cheque or bank account passbook of the Cover Head.
  • Address proof (passport or other documents).

3. Cover Composition:

• A cover can include a maximum of 5 family members or near relatives.
• The Head of the Cover is responsible for payment.
• Only family members or near relatives are allowed in the cover.
• All pilgrims under one cover must travel and stay together.

4. Cover Size:

• A cover can have a minimum of 1 and a maximum of 5 adults + 2 infants.
• In the Ladies Without Mehram category, a maximum of 5 ladies can apply in a single group.
• If family members exceed 5, apply in more than one cover.
• In the Aged 70+ category, 4 applications can apply in a single group.

5. Notes:

• Infants are charged 10% of the full fare.
• Applicants above 2 years are charged as adults.
• Pilgrims must obtain a unique Cover Number from the SHC for all further correspondence.

6. Application Details:

• Apply online at www.hajcommittee.gov.in or through the Android App “HAJ SUVIDHA.”
• Paste the applicant’s latest photographs on the downloaded Haj Application Form.

7. Proof of Residence:

• Submit a copy of the passport as an address proof if it matches the residential address.
• In other cases, submit a self-attested copy of Aadhaar Card, Bank Pass Book, Election Commission Photo ID Card, or utility bill.

8. Free Registration:

• Submit the Haj Application Form for free.
• A non-refundable Processing Fee of Rs.300/- is required for provisionally selected applicants later on.

9. Fee Payment:

• Pay the fee online at www.hajcommittee.gov.in or deposit it in the designated accounts of State Bank of India or Union Bank of India.
• Note: 2/3rd of the fee collected will be transferred to SHC by Haj Committee of India.

10. Nominee Details:
    • Clearly mention nominee details in the Haj Application Form.
    • The nominee will be contacted in case of emergencies, and only close relatives are eligible for refunds in case of the pilgrim’s death.
11. Here are the expenses in Saudi Riyals for a pilgrim (excluding airfare) for Haj 2023 in Saudi Arabia:

Expense

Additional (Optional) items:

1. Adahi Coupons 720.00 Riyal
2. Johfa Meeqat for Shia Pilgrims landing in Jeddah 177.10 Riyal

Note: The costs mentioned earlier may change based on fees set by the relevant agencies for Haj 2024. The total estimated expense for Haj 2024 will cover (1) costs for various items listed above (in Saudi Riyals), as already detailed in the table at Row number 18, (3) a non-refundable processing fee of Rs.300, (4) actual airfare, (5) airport and service taxes, (6) insurance charges as declared by the Saudi Government (if any), and (7) Rs.1,500 for miscellaneous dues, as per the breakdown mentioned below.

Applicants must follow these instructions for the Haj Application Form (HAF):

1. Provide the correct address in the HAF. Giving incorrect information may result in rejection of the application and loss of the deposited amount.
2. Pilgrims should provide their accurate mobile number in the HAF. This allows the Haj Committee of India (HCoI) and State or Union Territory (UT) Haj Committees to send important information and instructions via SMS/Voice messages. However, this doesn’t guarantee a seat allocation if the pilgrim misses the specified deadlines for submitting documents.
3. The bank account of the person listed as the Cover Head is mandatory for submitting the Haj Application. Pilgrims are advised to open/update their bank accounts to facilitate digital refunds through RTGS/NEFT.
4. Each pilgrim must submit a solemn declaration about their status (Fresh/Repeater Companion, age 70+, Ladies without Mehram) as outlined in the Haj Guidelines.
5. After provisional selection, submit a self-attested copy of the downloaded HAF, solemn declaration, Medical Screening & Fitness Certificate, along with the original receipt/proof of payment and the original passport with a recent photograph pasted on the back.
6. If the residential address matches the passport, a copy of the passport can serve as proof. Otherwise, submit a self-attested copy of Aadhaar Card, Bank Pass Book, Election Commission Photo I-D Card, or utility bills (electricity, telephone, water, or gas) for the last three months.
7. The envelope containing the filled online HAF for selected pilgrims should be labeled “Application for Haj – 2024 (Hijri – 1445)” and submitted to the Executive Officer of the concerned State Haj Committee within one week of Qurrah.
8. If the HAF is submitted without the required enclosures, it will be considered incomplete and summarily rejected.

Others

8. Declaration and Promise for Applicants Over 70 Years Old:

If you’re applying for Haj and you’re 70 or older, your application will get top priority for seat allocation in your State/Union Territory. However, if there are more applications in the 70+ age category than available seats, a random draw will decide. This ensures that elderly citizens who want to go on the Haj pilgrimage are guaranteed seats. Those in the 70+ age group must submit a declaration and promise in the specified format. If it’s missing or incomplete, the application will be rejected.

9. Declaration and Promise for General Category:

All general category pilgrims must submit a declaration and promise in English, following the “Once in a lifetime Haj through Haj Committee of India” policy. If this declaration is missing or not in the correct format, the application will be rejected.

10. Order of Priority:

When assigning seats in each state, priority goes to:
i) Aged 70+ category with a companion.
ii) Women traveling without a Mehram.
iii) General Category.

11. 70+ Age Applicants:

To ensure the well-being of single 70+ pilgrims during Haj in KSA, a companion is required. No 70+ pilgrim will be registered alone; they must have a companion who is an immediate relative. If the number of applications in the 70+ Age Category exceeds the quota, a draw of lots will decide. Applicants in this category must submit a declaration in the provided format.

12. Submission of HAF and Closing Date:

Detailed instructions for online submission are on the HCoI website. The deadline for submitting the Haj Application Form (HAF) is December 20, 2023. After the draw of lots, selected pilgrims must submit necessary documents within one week.

13. Scrutiny of Haj Application Forms by SHC:

The State Haj Committee (SHC) will verify online HAF completeness, issue acknowledgment to the Cover Head, and upload necessary documents. After draw of lots, they will scrutinize hard copies of HAF, solemn declaration, passports, and other documents.

14. Distribution of Quota:

80% of the Haj quota from the bilateral agreement with KSA goes to HCoI. The remaining 20% is distributed among States/UTs. Quotas for specific categories are deducted, and the rest is distributed based on population and draw of lots.

15. Qurrah:

In case applications exceed quotas, a computerized draw of lots (Qurrah) is conducted. The selected list is publicized, and priority is given to 70+ age pilgrims.

16. Principles of Qurrah:

Priority is given to 70+ age pilgrims. If there’s a waiting list, it’s sorted by category, and 70+ age applicants get priority.

17. Government Quota:

The discretionary government quota is canceled, benefiting common Indian Haj pilgrims.

18. General Waiting List:

Non-selected covers go into a waiting list. As seats open due to cancellations, they are filled from this list in order. The order is strictly followed, and once canceled, a seat cannot be reclaimed. Wait-listed pilgrims should stay in touch with HCoI/SHCs for seat status updates.

19. Cancellation and Refund Rules:

Cancellations will only be allowed in the unfortunate events of the applicant’s death or serious illness. If someone cancels for other reasons, they will face penalties outlined by HCoI. The HCoI aims to refund the deposited amount within a month.

20. Payments by Pilgrims and Confirmation:

A) Bank Reference Number: Each selected pilgrim will receive a unique bank reference number, crucial for depositing both the advance and balance Haj amounts at State Bank of India / Union Bank of India.

B) Payment Options:

• Online at www.hajcommittee.gov.in.
• Depositing the fee in HCoI’s Account at State Bank of India or Union Bank of India branches.
• Pilgrims can use the pink pay-in-slip from HCoI’s website or mobile app for bank payments.

C) Advance Haj Amount: Provisionally selected pilgrims must pay Rs.81,500 (Advance Haj Amount – Rs.80,000 plus Miscellaneous Dues – Rs.1,500).

D) Confirmation: After paying Rs.81,500, selected pilgrims need to submit the pay-in-slip along with the Medical Screening and Fitness Certificate to the concerned SHC within a week of Qurrah. The confirmation is subject to the receipt of all required documents.

E) Balance Haj Amount:
i) Pilgrims will be informed of the estimated total expenditure in due course. They can pay the balance amount in two or three instalments. The first instalment of Rs.1,70,000 is due immediately, and the remaining balance may be paid tentatively by the second/third week of March 2024.

ii) Any increase in costs due to foreign exchange rate changes will be charged to pilgrims.

iii) Pilgrims must clear all payments within specified dates reflected in the system.

F) Making payment doesn’t guarantee a Haj seat: Applicants must follow guidelines and provide accurate information. Provisional/confirmed status obtained through misrepresentation can lead to cancellation.

G) Visa Fees: Pilgrims must pay for Haj Visa, as informed by Saudi Authorities for Haj 2024.

Cancellation:

Failure to submit passport or payment by the due date will result in the pilgrim’s selection being cancelled. Pilgrims wishing to cancel for any reason must submit a cancellation letter to the SHCs. Cancellation requests will be processed, and refunds will follow the Haj Policy 2023 and Guidelines.

Accommodation:

Accommodation in Makkah is subject to Saudi regulations, with a uniform category. In case of non-availability, new areas may be allotted. Allocation is done through a computerized system, with the possibility of sharing rooms. Round-the-clock bus facilities are provided between Makkah accommodation and Haram Sharif, with timings set by Saudi Authorities for safety. Pilgrims may need to change buses near the tunnel for security reasons.

Living in Mina-Arafat-Muzdalifa-Mina:
Mina is a small valley where pilgrims share large tents due to limited space. Pilgrims spend 5-6 days in Mina, and arrangements are made by Tawafa Establishments (Moallims). Each Moallim’s tent accommodates around 5000 pilgrims. Space is tight, so pilgrims should only bring essential items. According to KSA norms, each pilgrim gets 0.98 sq. meters to place a mattress on the floor. Beds are not available. Sanitation facilities are limited in Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifa. Mina tents have air coolers, not ACs, and sometimes they may not cool well. Saudi authorities allocate tents and transportation to ensure pilgrim safety.

Madinah Accommodation:
In Madinah, pilgrims prefer accommodations in the Markazia area (within the first Ring Road from Haram Sharif). About 60-65% of pilgrims may find accommodation there. Arrangements are made on the spot by Adillah Establishment. Pilgrims are accommodated based on building capacity, and sometimes segregation by gender occurs. Accommodation outside Markazia may be provided, and commuting to Haram Sharif is not facilitated. No cooking is allowed in Madinah, but meals can be purchased from nearby restaurants. The allocation process is influenced by various factors.

Exempted Category:
Pilgrims staying in Rubat, according to KSA norms, won’t be charged for accommodation. Rubat Authorities need to submit “Tasreeh” to CGI by February 20, 2024. HCoI will confirm and approve the “Tasreeh” and authorized capacity. Pilgrims selected by Rubat Authorities must be submitted within the stipulated time. HCoI is not responsible for delays.

SIM Cards:
HCoI doesn’t provide SIM cards for Haj Pilgrims. Cover Heads must have a working mobile number registered with HCoI for the Haj Suvidha App. Activation of Saudi local SIM cards requires biometric and passport/visa details.

Change of Accommodation:
Accommodation is allotted based on availability in a particular area. Requests for changes cannot be entertained as accommodation is hired according to the total number of pilgrims.

Qurbani (Adahi):
The Islamic Development Bank (IDB) is the only organization authorized by the Government of KSA to handle Qurbani for Haj pilgrims. Pilgrims should be cautious of fraudsters. The Haj Committee of India (HCoI) will arrange Adahi through IDB for those who choose it. Once chosen, this option cannot be canceled. If pilgrims mark Adahi as “Opted” but the balance amount is shown in IHPMS, the Adahi option will be marked as ‘Yes’ or ‘No’. HCoI can change the Adahi option.

Warning:
Pilgrims must follow Saudi authorities’ directions for safety, considering the large number of pilgrims expected for Haj. It’s crucial to remain calm, considerate, and cooperative.

Medical Screening and Fitness Certificate:
A two-step medical screening is mandatory for all applicants to ensure only healthy pilgrims go for Haj. Pilgrims need a Medical Screening & Fitness Certificate from a Central/State Government Doctor. The certificate will include information on mandatory vaccinations.

Health and Training (HAT) Card:
Selected pilgrims must obtain a Health and Training (HAT) Card and Haj Guide from the State/Union Territory Haj Committee by submitting their passport and pay-in-slip for the Advance Haj Amount.

Vaccination Certificate:
All selected pilgrims (2 years and older) must have a Certificate of Inoculation for Meningitis. Pilgrims should get inoculated and obtain a Vaccination Certificate on the HAT Card before reaching the Embarkation Point.

Oral Polio Vaccination:
Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV) is mandatory six weeks before the Haj journey. Pilgrims should get a certificate on their HAT Card and receive another dose upon disembarkation in the Kingdom.

Embarkation Points (EPs):

There are 20 Embarkation Points for Haj 2024. Pilgrims can choose any two in order of preference. If an EP exceeds capacity, pilgrims may choose from five alternative EPs. EP selection is on a first-come, first-serve basis, and no changes are allowed once selected.

(In Rs.)

“The cost of air travel for Haj 2024 will be determined through a bidding process initiated by MoCA. Once pilgrims choose their preferred Embarkation Point, they cannot change it. Here are some key points regarding flights:

1. Flight Allotment:
   a) Pilgrims from the same district and nearby districts will be accommodated in the same flight based on capacity and Embarkation Point choice.
   b) Pilgrims will receive flight details in advance through SMSs/WhatsApp/voice messages/phone calls and on the HCoI website.
   c) Pilgrims should plan their journey according to the informed schedule. No requests for changing travel/flight dates will be entertained.
   d) HCol may adjust seats between flights based on the situation. Cooperation with authorities on journey dates and flights is advised.
   e) Pilgrims must travel on the allocated flight, with exceptions only for unavoidable circumstances and subject to seat availability and one-way airfare payment.
   f) Air charter tickets are non-transferable, and no changes/cancellations/transfers are allowed for return flights.
2. Booking and Confirmation:
   a) Pilgrims must clear all dues before booking.
   b) Cover heads should confirm e-booking for the flight online on the HCoI website within two days before departure.
   c) Pilgrims not making online confirmation must report two days before departure for booking confirmation.
   d) No requests for splitting Covers or changing allocated accommodation will be considered.
3. Health and Other Requirements:
   a) Pilgrims must provide health certificates, vaccination records, and training details.
   b) Change in flight date after finalization is allowed only in cases of death/serious ailment/accident of the pilgrim or close family member.
4. Other Flight-related Information:
   a) HCol reserves the right to change flight date/timing or cancel the journey in case of exigencies.
   b) Pilgrims must report at the airport four to five hours before the flight.
   c) In case of missed flights, pilgrims must pay Rs.25,000/- per head for the next available flight.
   d) Pilgrims must adhere to airline baggage rules specified by HCol; non-compliance may lead to journey cancellation.
5. Flight Schedule:
   a) Flight schedules are based on airline convenience and subject to approval from Saudi authorities.
   b) The Haj Air Charter Flight operation may commence tentatively from 09.05.2024, with return flights starting from 20.06.2024.
6. City Check-in:
   Airlines will provide city check-in services during the return journey.
7. Important Notes:
   a) HCol is not liable for any loss or damage during the pilgrimage.
   b) Pilgrims should follow safety instructions on the flight.
   c) In case of death, burial rituals will be performed in KSA, and the Death Certificate will be sent to the next of kin.
   d) Seats for KuH and State Coordinators are earmarked for organized assistance.
   e) Persons with special needs must be accompanied by a blood relative.
   f) Baggage rules must be followed during both outward and inward journeys.”

Baggage Regulations

Baggage items other than specified suitcases and handbags will not be accepted by the airlines. The Haj Committee of India (HCoI) disclaims responsibility for pilgrims carrying excess baggage or items not complying with prescribed size and weight limits. Noncompliance may result in the cancellation of the Haj journey, with forfeiture of the entire deposited amount.

Warning: Pilgrims must strictly adhere to the size, shape, and weight specifications for handbags/cabin baggage. Airlines will not accept handbags exceeding 7 kgs. or those deviating from the specified size and shape. Non-compliant bags will remain stranded at Jeddah/Madinah Haj Terminal, and the Haj Committee of India will not facilitate their return to India. Pilgrims are strongly advised to follow airline rules in their own interest.

Pilgrims should keep crucial items like passports, travel documents, medicines, and spectacles with them or in their handbag/cabin baggage, not in the check-in baggage.

Note: Pilgrims are urged to use a bold marker pen to record their Cover Number, Name, Address, Flight Number, and Embarkation Point on baggage for easy identification. The absence of these markings complicates tracing missing baggage.

ZamZam Water Guidelines

Pilgrims are not permitted to carry ZamZam cans or bottles separately when returning from KSA. KSA authorities will confiscate baggage containing ZamZam or prohibited items. Airlines will provide a 5-litre ZamZam can to every pilgrim at their disembarkation point.

Lost Baggage Claim Procedure

Before check-in, pilgrims should obtain tags from airlines. Baggage tags are essential in case of missing baggage. If baggage is not found on arrival, pilgrims can take the following actions:

1. Approach the airline’s lost baggage desk near the baggage area.
2. Present the baggage tag provided at check-in to lodge a complaint.
3. File a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) and submit it to the airlines, keeping a copy for future reference.
4. File a complaint directly with the airlines for claiming lost baggage and seeking compensation, following all relevant trade documents, after waiting for the baggage until the last flight.
5. The last date for making a claim for lost baggage is 30.09.2024.

Banned Items and Restrictions

1. Inflammable Items: Carrying items like kerosene, petrol, stove, etc., is strictly prohibited. Violators may face legal prosecution.
2. Prohibited Imports: The import of prohibited items into KSA, such as Khash-Khash, Viagra tablets, sexual oil and cream, synthetic Kapoor, Cystone, Khammera, Gutkha, Khaini, Gul, Peppermint, or narcotics in any form, is banned. Violators may face legal action and repatriation by KSA authorities.
3. Political and Pornographic Material: Carrying political literature, photographs, or pornographic material is strictly prohibited, with severe punishment for violators.
4. Food Items: KSA prohibits carrying food items, both cooked and uncooked. Pilgrims are strongly cautioned not to carry items like oil, ghee, pickles, fish, sweetmeats, vegetables, fruit, etc. Cooking is strictly prohibited in pilgrims’ accommodation buildings.
5. Valuables to Mina: Pilgrims are advised not to carry tickets, travel documents, extra cash, jewelry, or valuables to Mina.
6. Business Activities: Pilgrims are not permitted to engage in business activities. Carrying goods/articles in commercial quantities is strictly prohibited.
7. Beggars: Any beggar in the guise of a pilgrim proceeding to Haj through HCoI will be strictly dealt with, including cancellation/detention and forfeiture of any amount deposited.
8. Declaration of Cash: Pilgrims must declare if they are carrying cash or equivalent valuable items of SAR 60,000 and more for the entire Family Cover.

Refund Policy

In case of cancellation, refunds will be made within one month from the date of receipt of the cancellation request in the prescribed format. Rs.1,500/- collected as Miscellaneous Dues will not be refunded at any stage of cancellation. Refunds will be made after deducting the prescribed fees.

Refund Policy for Pilgrimage Cancellations

1. Exceptional Cases: Cancellation due to the death of the pilgrim, serious illness, accident, or pregnancy rendering travel impossible will incur a deduction of only Rs.1500/- per pilgrim.
2. Family Exemption: Provisions do not apply to accompanying family members (wife, husband, father, mother, son, daughter, sister, and brother) covered in (i). In such cases, only Rs.1,500/- will be deducted per pilgrim.
3. Airfare Refund: Non-transferable air charter tickets mean no refund for unutilized return journeys. An exception is made for the death of a pilgrim in Saudi Arabia, with the nominee refunded one-way airfare.
4. Non-Reportee Status: Pilgrims not reporting at the prescribed embarkation point or submitting a cancellation request after flight departure will be treated as non-reportees.
5. Refund Documentation: Refund claims must be accompanied by copies of pay-in-slips and relevant medical/death certificates.
6. Online Payment Refunds: Refunds, if any, for online payments will be remitted to the original payment source.

Legal Status of the Haj Committee of India (HCoI)

7. No Profit No Loss: HCoI, a statutory body under the Ministry of Minority Affairs, operates on a “No Profit No Loss” basis, collecting funds for services. Only the Non-Refundable Processing Fee and Miscellaneous Dues are charged.
8. Consumer Protection: HCoI is not covered by the Consumer Protection Act, and pilgrims cannot claim compensation for factors beyond its control.

Jurisdiction and Correspondence

9. Postal Issues: HCoI is not responsible for consequences due to postal delays, loss in transit, or wrong delivery.
10. Jurisdiction: Disputes fall under the jurisdiction of the courts in Greater Mumbai.