Manama: Qatar has decided to allow Haj (pilgrimage) operators to decide the fees to be paid for would-be pilgrims. The liberalisation announced by the endowments and Islamic affairs ministry, will be implemented at the next Haj season in late October.
"The liberalisation of Haj services, a practice adopted in neighbouring Gulf countries, will be the best way to provide the most adequate services," Mohammad Hassan Al Muhannadi, the chairman of the Haj committee, said. "The liberalisation of the prices will also boost for competition among Haj operators to provide better services to pilgrims from Qatar in the Holy Land, including transportation, accommodation and medical treatment," he said, quoted by Qatar News Agency (QNA).
Qatar authorities decide the fees to be given for performing Haj, the fifth pillar of Islam, in and around Makkah. Several pilgrims last year complained about the quality of the services provided and the violation of contracts with operators.
Complaints included low quality bus services and accommodation in some areas, lack of organisation resulting in long delays and the absence of assistance at times of need.
"The committee will star next week listening to operators' answers to complaints and we will take the appropriate action," he said.
