SINGAPORE, 4 January 2024: The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) has suspended Al Faheem Tours & Travels Pte Ltd (license number 03211) from conducting travel agent activities effective 28 May 2024. This action follows the company’s breach of the Travel Agents Act 1975.
Al Faheem Tours & Travels, identified as an Umrah travel service provider on its Facebook page, failed to submit its audited statement of accounts within the required six months after the close of its financial year. Additionally, the company did not pay the financial penalty imposed in lieu of suspension or revocation.
The suspension will last until Al Faheem Tours & Travels pays the financial penalty or for up to six months, whichever comes first. During the suspension, the company must fulfill its existing obligations to customers but cannot accept new travel bookings.
STB emphasized its commitment to maintaining the integrity of Singapore’s travel industry. “STB takes a serious view against errant travel agents and will not hesitate to take necessary actions to protect the reputation of Singapore’s travel industry,” the board stated.
Umrah, meaning ‘a visit’ to the Holy Kaaba, can be performed at any time of the year, unlike the Hajj pilgrimage, which takes place annually within the first 10 days of the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah. Travel agencies like Al Faheem Tours & Travels specialize in offering Umrah travel packages for pilgrims.