MCB urges pilgrims to delay Hajj bookings amidst COVID-19 pandemic
This week, Saudi Arabia’s Hajj Minister has requested all prospective Hajjis to “wait before concluding contracts”, citing concerns about the safety of pilgrims amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. Hajj is due to take place this year from 28th July-2nd August, with many Hajjis looking to book their trips soon.
Commenting, Harun Khan, Secretary General of the MCB said:
“Going for Hajj is one of the biggest events in a Muslim’s life, and there is no doubt that many will have been making plans to go this year.
“In these unprecedented times, it is imperative that public health is put first, and with millions of people from across the world coming to one place to perform the pilgrimage in close proximity to one another, it is sensible that we exercise a degree of caution and wait and see what the situation is closer to the time.
“This will, of course, impact many Hajj tour operators based in the UK for whom this is their source of income. We urge these tour operators to seek support from the UK Government if it is needed and to offer reassurances to those who have already booked that their Hajj bookings are financially protected by the Civil Aviation Authority’s ATOL scheme. British pilgrims should continue to abide by public health guidance, monitor the situation in Saudi Arabia, and contact their tour operators for any support.”
ENDS