Tourism

Fraudulent pilgrimage schemes in Uzbekistan cause damage of 25 billion soums

Fraudulent pilgrimage schemes in Uzbekistan cause damage of 25 billion soums
Fraudulent pilgrimage schemes in Uzbekistan cause damage of 25 billion soums

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) — Uzbekistan’s Committee for Competition and Consumer Protection has reported cases of fraud in the organization of pilgrimage services.

Two companies — Panorama Airways and Gulbakhor Airways — were cited as examples, with their unlawful actions causing damages totaling 25 billion soums. According to the Committee, 2,558 people were affected by their fraudulent activities.

Law enforcement agencies have already taken appropriate measures against these firms and the individuals who misled citizens.

The Committee reminded the public that providing pilgrimage services is only permitted with the appropriate license. A list of 12 officially authorized tour operators has been published and is currently valid.

Citizens are strongly advised to use only licensed companies and to immediately report any suspicious advertisements or known violations by calling the hotline at 1159.

“Any activity in this field without a license is prohibited,” the agency emphasized.

Anvar Umarov
Anvar Umarov

Anvar Umarov is the founder and editor-in-chief of UzDaily, a leading business and news publication covering Uzbekistan and Central Asia. With over 20 years of experience in journalism, he has also worked as a PR manager for both state and private organizations, bringing a broad perspective on media, communications, and public affairs to his editorial leadership.