This is an increase over 2013, when Muis appointed five individual GSAs and four consortium GSAs (also comprising 20 GSAs), and approved 15 Haj packages. The increase in packages this year is due to more short-trip packages being offered.
While the 15 approved packages from 2013 remain part of the approved packages for 2014, eight of the packages have increased an average of 8% in price, while five are now cheaper. The lowest package price this year is S$6,990 while the most expensive package costs S$13,650. All packages include emergency medical assistance (EMA) but exclude airfare and prevailing taxes. Only 680 pilgrims from Singapore were approved by the Saudi authorities for this year, leading to lower bargaining power for the GSAs and thus higher prices.
All packages offered were submitted through a public tender via the
Government e-Business (GeBIZ) site.
Muis advises pilgrims-to-be to evaluate carefully before deciding on their preferred Haj package based on their need and affordability. They are strongly advised to read and understand the content of the Haj Purchase Contract and the GSAs have been requested to explain the contract to intending pilgrims before they are asked to sign it.
Muis has notified the successful pilgrims whose registration number falls
within the official quota and have confirmed to Muis that they will perform Haj
this year. Muis will soon notify them to choose their preferred Haj package.
Information on the authorised travel agents and approved Haj packages for this year can be found at www.muis.gov.sg.