The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah advised pilgrims on Friday to avoid carrying large amounts of money beyond their needs during their Hajj journey. They recommended bringing only what is necessary to meet their requirements and encouraged pilgrims to pay for services in advance through approved platforms and electronic payment methods before arriving in the holy lands.
In a series of posts on their social media accounts, the ministry provided a set of financial management tips to help pilgrims avoid problems associated with carrying excess money. The ministry stated, "O guest of the Most Merciful, suffice with what covers your financial needs, as you are not required to carry large sums of money during your Hajj journey. Limit yourself to the necessities of the trip and avoid carrying large amounts; pay service fees in advance and estimate additional expenses before arriving, relying on electronic payment."
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah explained that "the relevant authorities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia are keen to design a financial path that collects all fees and service costs in advance, including accommodation, transportation, and round-trip tickets, so that the pilgrim does not have to carry large sums of money upon arrival, thus avoiding financial fraud attempts by strangers and preventing distractions that could spoil their worship."
According to the ministry, these tips are part of an international awareness and educational campaign launched in 15 languages, through digital and traditional media in airports across 20 countries, and in coordination with Islamic centers and figures, to inform the guests of the Most Merciful about Hajj regulations and the importance of adhering to them for a smooth and easy performance of their rituals, while avoiding performing rituals without a permit or Hajj visa.
