The launch of the online portal for local pilgrims by the Saudi Ministry of Haj has led to local operators reworking their packages, a report said.

The portal will help curb the incidence of fake Haj campaigns, ensure the security of pilgrims, combat exceedingly high prices and guarantee the rights of all parties, said the Arab News report.

The portal will allow residents and citizens to easily access licensed Haj companies, as well as obtain clear and transparent information about services provided, Hussain Al-Shareef, deputy minister for Haj affairs was quoted as saying in the report.

Starting next week, individuals can access the site and register in order to identify services without visiting the company, said the report.

He said the ministry has sought to unify the types of services provided in order to assure equality and ensure no companies are overpricing their services.

Prices for local Haj packages under the new system vary between SR5,893 ($1,570) and SR8,146 ($2,171) per person, depending on the group and level, as well as on the form of transportation included.

Last year, prices varied between SR8,500 ($2,265)and SR14,500 ($3,865), and often went as high as SR20,000 ($5,331) per person, the report said.