How to Avoid Being Scammed During Ziyarat Tours?
Performing Ziyarat (visiting Islamic historical sites) is a deeply spiritual experience for many pilgrims during Umrah and Hajj. However, with the increasing number of tourists, scams have also become common. Fake tour operators, overpriced trips, and misleading services can cause unnecessary stress during your journey.
To ensure a safe and hassle-free Ziyarat experience, it’s important to be aware of potential scams and take precautionary measures. In this guide, we will discuss how to identify and avoid Ziyarat tour scams, choose reliable travel agencies, and protect yourself from fraud.
1. Book Ziyarat Tours Only Through Trusted Agencies
The best way to avoid scams is to book your Ziyarat tours through reputable and licensed travel agencies.
✅ Check Reviews: Look for feedback from other pilgrims on Google, social media, and travel forums.
✅ Verify Legitimacy: Ensure the tour operator is licensed by the Saudi authorities and has proper credentials.
✅ Compare Prices: Extremely cheap packages may indicate a scam, so compare prices from multiple providers.
✅ Ask for Receipts: Always request official receipts for any payments made to the tour company.
🔹 Tip: If you have booked your Umrah package through a reliable agency, ask them if they offer official Ziyarat tours.
2. Beware of Fake Tour Guides
Some individuals pretend to be Ziyarat tour guides and approach pilgrims near the Masjid al-Haram in Makkah or Masjid an-Nabawi in Madinah, offering cheap, last-minute tours.
🚩 Warning Signs of Fake Guides:
❌ They don’t have an official ID or license.
❌ They demand cash payments upfront.
❌ They offer suspiciously low prices.
❌ They use high-pressure sales tactics.
✅ Always choose government-approved or registered tour guides who have official identification and good reviews.
3. Avoid Overpriced and Fake Packages
Some scammers overcharge pilgrims for basic Ziyarat tours by claiming they offer an “exclusive experience.” Others might sell fake tickets to sites that are free to visit.
🔹 Common Scams:
❌ Charging extra for sites that have no entrance fees (e.g., Jabal al-Nour, Masjid Quba).
❌ Fake “VIP” packages that promise special access but offer nothing extra.
❌ Last-minute price increases after payment has been made.
✅ Research the actual cost of the Ziyarat tour in advance and compare packages before booking.
4. Avoid Paying in Advance Without a Receipt
Scammers often ask for full cash payments upfront without providing a receipt or confirmation.
✅ Always ask for a written contract or a digital confirmation before making any payment.
✅ Use credit/debit cards or official payment apps rather than cash, as these transactions can be tracked.
✅ If paying in cash, only pay at the official office of the tour company.
🔹 Tip: Be cautious if someone insists on immediate full payment without any proof of booking.
5. Be Careful of Unauthorized Transportation Services
Many scammers offer cheap private cars or taxis for Ziyarat tours, but these might be unsafe or overpriced. Some drivers may even take you to the wrong location or demand extra payment mid-journey.
✅ Book transport through authorized sources like hotels, registered tour operators, or ride-hailing apps (Uber, Careem).
✅ Negotiate and agree on the fare in advance if using local taxis.
✅ Avoid accepting rides from strangers or unofficial drivers outside mosques or airports.
6. Check the Tour Itinerary Before Booking
Scammers may leave out important Ziyarat sites or rush through the tour while still charging full price.
✅ Confirm the itinerary in writing before making any payment.
✅ Ensure that it includes all major sites such as:
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Jabal al-Nour (Cave of Hira)
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Jabal Thawr
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Masjid Quba
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Masjid Qiblatain
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Battle of Uhud site
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Grave of Hamza ibn Abdul-Muttalib
✅ Ask how much time will be spent at each site to avoid rushed experiences.
🔹 Tip: A reliable tour will provide a detailed schedule and allow enough time for prayers and reflection.
7. Be Cautious of "Special Blessings" or Fake Religious Offers
Some fraudsters may claim to offer “exclusive spiritual blessings” or special duas at historical sites in exchange for money.
🚩 Avoid:
❌ Fake scholars or guides demanding donations for “spiritual benefits.”
❌ Individuals selling “sacred water” or “holy items” from Ziyarat sites.
❌ Being pressured into making large charitable donations on the spot.
✅ Islam does not require paying extra for blessings—avoid these scams and donate only to official charities or mosques.
8. Keep Your Belongings Secure
Scammers sometimes operate in crowded Ziyarat sites, using distractions to steal money, passports, or mobile phones.
✅ Keep your passport, money, and valuables in a secure money belt or a hidden pouch.
✅ Be aware of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas like Jannat al-Baqi or Jabal Uhud.
✅ Avoid sharing personal information with strangers.
🔹 Tip: Always keep digital copies of important documents in case they get lost.
9. Trust Your Instincts and Ask Questions
If something feels off, trust your instincts. Many scammers rely on pilgrims being too polite to refuse offers.
✅ If a deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
✅ Ask for clear answers before committing to a tour.
✅ Walk away if you feel pressured or rushed into making a payment.
🔹 Tip: If in doubt, consult your hotel concierge, Umrah agent, or fellow pilgrims before booking.
Final Thoughts
Ziyarat is an opportunity to connect with Islamic history, but being aware of scams will help ensure a safe and spiritual experience.
Key Takeaways to Avoid Scams:
✔️ Book through trusted agencies with good reviews.
✔️ Avoid fake guides and unauthorized transport services.
✔️ Compare tour prices and itineraries before booking.
✔️ Always ask for a receipt and avoid cash-only deals.
✔️ Be cautious of pickpockets and donation scams.
By staying informed and alert, you can fully enjoy your Ziyarat journey without falling victim to fraud. May your pilgrimage be blessed and safe!