SINGAPORE - Muslims in Singapore intending to go on the haj this year will have 12 tour agencies and 30 haj packages to choose from, the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (Muis) said on Monday (Feb 5).

The haj is the annual Muslim pilgrimage to Mecca. In February last year, the number of haj places for pilgrims from Singapore was increased from 680 to 800.

The duration of the packages range from 13 to 35 days, with prices starting from $6,995 per person. The average price is $11,500.

The prices include a 5 per cent value-added tax which has been introduced in Saudi Arabia for all goods and services this year.

Muis will notify those who have successfully registered for the haj. They are advised not to make payment to the tour agencies until they receive the haj package selection letter from Muis.

The list of authorised travel agents and additional information can be found at www.muis.gov.sg