He made this statement at a press conference organised by his ministry at the OIC Conference Hall on Monday.
“Any agency found wanting for overcharging pilgrims will have their licence revoked and the victim (s) will be refunded.”
He revealed that 15 travelling agencies have been licenced to operate on Hajj.
He advised Gambians not to buy any package from any agency other than the below mentioned to avoid being scammed.
“The package includes aircraft from Banjul to Medina and return from Jidda to Banjul. Hotel accommodation in Macca and Medina; catering in Macca and Medina; transport in Macca, Medina and then the hotel; five litre bottle of Zam Zam water and a visa,” he explained.
He clarified that luggage and rams for sacrifice are not included in the package.
He revealed that the flights’ departures are scheduled for 15th, 16th, and 17th May 2025. He noted that these dates are yet to be confirmed and could be changed.
He stated that his ministry has done the necessary ground work to make sure Gambian pilgrims have comfortable accommodation and travelling means.
“We expect 2000 pilgrims and about 300 rooms are reserved for individuals who want to attain VIP accommodation.
“Normally, we join four individuals to a room, however, if anyone decides to live alone or in two or any number less than four, arrangements will be done at their expense to stay that way,” he clarified.
The registered agencies are: “GIA, Banjul Travelling Agency, Tiwa Ones Travel and Tours, Travel Express Agency, Obid Travel Agncy, Continental Travel Limited, Amara Travel and Tours, Maya Global Travelling Agency, Algasimo Travel Agency, Crossbridge Travel limited, Groupo Soninkara Travels, Alpha’s travel Agency, Alhuda Travelling Agency, Prestige World Travel Limited and Essa Muhammed Travel Agency.”
