Economic instability increases risk
Fatwa committee advises against financing Hajj, Umrah pilgrimages through loans
ERBIL – The Kurdistan Region’s Fatwa Committee has recently voiced its opinion on the growing trend of funding Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages through loans, labeling it as undesirable in today’s circumstances.
The committee’s concern is primarily based on the fear that individuals might not be able to repay their loans, given the significant financial commitments required for performing Hajj or Umrah.
Dr. Abdullah Weisi, leader of the Union of Religious Scholars of the Kurdistan Region, told 964media, “Islamic Sharia does not explicitly forbid undertaking Hajj or Umrah through loans or installment payments, as long as the person is confident in their ability to settle the debt.”
“Nevertheless, given the current economic instability and the volatility of currency values, it is advised against for those without sufficient financial resources to take on debt for Hajj or Umrah. Sharia law does not impose this financial burden,” Dr. Weisi emphasized.
964media previously reported on the emergence of entities offering Umrah packages payable in installments. The Kurdistan Region’s Hajj and Umrah Authority highlighted the importance of consulting the Fatwa Committee to evaluate the permissibility of such arrangements.
Various companies and groups have introduced installment plans, ranging from $40 to $100 monthly, to facilitate Umrah pilgrimages for individuals citing “financial constraints.” The exact prevalence of these arrangements has not been disclosed by the region’s Hajj and Umrah Authority.
The minimum cost for undertaking Umrah via land travel starts at $475, with air travel options ranging between $675 and $700. Karwan Stuni, a spokesperson for the Kurdistan Region’s Hajj and Umrah Authority, noted, “There are individuals, operating under the guise of groups, organizing Umrah trips without proper registration as companies.
“They have been summoned by the Ministry of Endowment and Religious Affairs, and legal measures will be initiated if they continue their operations.”
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